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THE  CORRESPONDENCE   OF  THE 

COLONIAL  GOVERNORS  OF 

RHODE   ISLAND 

1723- 1775 


fKANSTON    (OAT    Ol-     ARMS 


THE  CORRESPONDENCE 

OF 

THE  COLONIAL  GOVERNORS 
OF  RHODE  ISLAND 

17^3-1775 

Published  by  the  National  Society  of  the 
Colonial  Dames  of  America  in  the  State  of 
Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plantations 

EDITED   BY 

GERTRUDE   SELWYN  ^IMBALL 

IN  TWO  VOLUMES 
VOL.  I 


BOSTON  AND  NEW  YORK 
HOUGHTON,  MIFFLIN  AND  COMPANY 

1902 


COPYRIGHT,  1902,  BY  THE  NATIONAL  SOCIETY  OF  THE  COLONIAL  DAMES  OF 
AMERICA  IN  THE  STATE  OF  RHODE  ISLAND  AND  PROVIDENCE  PLANTATIONS 

ALL  RIGHTS  RESERVED 


Published  December,  igoa 


R3fc 
V.  / 


TO  THE   MEMORY 

OF   THOSE   HONORED   MEN 

FROM   WHOM   HAS   COME   DOWN   A   PRECIOUS  LEGACY 

THESE   VOLUMES   ARE 

IN  GRATEFUL  REMEMBRANCE 

BY  THE 

NATIONAL  SOCIETY   OF   THE   COLONIAL  DAMES   OF   AMERICA 

IN   THE   STATE   OF   RHODE  ISLAND   AND 

PROVIDENCE    PLANTATIONS 


PREFACE 

In  presenting  to  the  public  these  volumes  of  the 
Correspondence  of  the  Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode 
Island,  the  Colonial  Dames  of  Rhode  Island  are 
fulfilling  one  purpose  for  which  their  Society  was 
founded,  namely,  "  To  perpetuate  the  memory  of 
those  honored  men  whose  sacrifices  and  labors  in 
Colonial  times  potentially  aided  in  laying  the  foun- 
dations of  a  great  Republic  "  and  "  To  collect  and 
preserve  the  records  of  their  sacrifices."  With  this 
purpose  at  heart,  the  Society  has  gladly  availed  itself 
of  the  opportunity  to  place  before  the  general  reader 
these  letters,  which  have  been  almost  inaccessible  in 
the  archives  of  the  State.  This  is  done  with  the 
hope  of  increasing  in  those  of  the  present  day  the 
feeling  of  patriotism  and  the  knowledge  of  "  the 
sturdy  independence  of  character  and  love  of  liberty 
regulated  by  law  "  which  animated  these  heroic  an- 
cestors in  their  sacrifices  for  the  great  principles 
which  they  exemplified  in  their  lives  and  for  which 
they  contended. 

Jeanie  Lippitt  Weeden, 
Sarah  Perkins  J.  Babcock, 
Helen  Hazard  Bacon, 

Committee  on  Publication. 
October  27,  1902. 


INTRODUCTION 

The  manuscript  correspondence  of  the  governors  of  Rhode 
Island,  from  which  these  documents  are  copied,  is  preserved 
in  a  series  of  twenty-eight  foHo  volumes,  in  the  archive-room 
of  the  state.  They  cover  the  years  from  1729  to  1839,  and 
contain  a  mass  of  the  most  varied  information,  of  widely  dif- 
fering degrees  of  value.  It  is  a  matter  for  regret  and  aston- 
ishment that  the  official  correspondence  of  the  colony  of 
Rhode  Island  for  the  sixty-four  years  antedating  1729  should 
have  completely  disappeared. 

The  aim  of  these  volumes  is  to  present  all  the  available 
material  in  this  series  which  lies  between  1729  and  1775, 
and  which  has  not  heretofore  been  printed.  The  greater 
part  of  the  letters  have  been  taken  from  the  series  just 
mentioned.  Six  are  copied  from  a  volume  of  manuscripts  in 
the  custody  of  the  state  entitled,  Papers  Relating  to  the  Old 
French  War,  jy^^-iydl.  Others  were  found  in  certain 
blank-books  which  had  been  used  for  keeping  the  various 
accounts  current  of  the  colonial  administration ;  or  amid 
bundles  of  loose  papers,  of  an  extremely  miscellaneous 
nature.  A  few  are  in  a  volume  of  manuscript  Orders  in 
Council.  Two  were  taken  from  the  volumes  of  transcripts 
from  the  Public  Record  Office,  which  are  in  the  possession 
of  the  John  Carter  Brown  Library.  Seven  were  obtained 
through  the  courtesy  of  the  librarian  of  the  Rhode  Island 
Historical  Society,  from  manuscripts  in  the  possession  of  the 
society.  This  material  consists  of  letters  to  and  from  the 
colonial  governors,  together  with  documents  which  came 
into  their  hands  in  the  form  of  enclosures. 


Introduction 


A  considerable  number  of  the  letters  now  in  the  archives 
were  printed  by  Mr.  John  R.  Bartlett,  in  his  edition  of  the 
Colonial  Records  of  Rhode  Island,  and  such  letters  (with 
very  few  exceptions)  have  been  omitted  from  this  collection  ; 
but  occasionally,  a  letter  of  great  importance,  or  one  neces- 
sary for  a  proper  understanding  of  other  letters,  has  been 
reprinted. 

The  series  ends  with  the  close  of  Governor  Wanton's  last 
administration,  in  1775,  when  the  revolutionary  era  may 
fairly  be  said  to  begin  in  Rhode  Island. 

It  has  been  thought  that  the  value  of  the  letters  would  be 
enhanced  by  following  the  spelling  and  punctuation  of  the 
eighteenth  century.  Whatever  may  give  us  the  atmosphere 
of  a  bygone  age  is  of  importance  to  us,  and  for  this  reason  it 
seems  well  worth  our  while  to  preserve  the  eccentric  ortho- 
graphy, as  well  as  the  quaint  phrases,  of  the  original  docu- 
ments. Great  care  has  been  taken  to  reproduce  individual 
peculiarities  of  this  sort,  and  it  will  be  seen  that  the  oft-re- 
peated assertion  respecting  the  illiteracy  of  the  early  Rhode- 
Islanders  finds  occasional  illustration  in  these  pages. 

An  Appendix  gives  a  list  of  those  letters  printed  in  the 
Colonial  Records  of  Rhode  Island,  chronologically  arranged. 

The  colonial  governor  was  at  once  the  representative  of 
the  Crown  before  his  colony  and  of  his  colony  before  the 
Crown  ;  and  this  held  true  whether  he  was  appointed  to  his 
office  by  the  Crown,  or  whether  he  was  elected  by  the  people 
of  the  colony,  —  as  was  the  case  in  Connecticut  and  Rhode 
Island  in  the  eighteenth  century.  Under  either  alternative 
the  governor  was  the  medium  of  official  intercourse,  —  in  all 
the  colonies  he  was  called  upon  to  answer  to  the  home  gov- 
ernment for  the  proceedings  of  the  colonists  within  his  juris- 
diction. To  him  instructions  were  sent  by  the  Lords  of 
Trade,  or  by  the  Secretary  of  State,  as  to  the  course  of  pol- 
icy to  be  adopted  by  the  colony.  He  was  told  which  forms 
of  development  were  to  be  encouraged  and  which  were  to  be 
repressed,  and  he  was  expected  to  report  at  short  intervals 


Introduction  xi 


to  the  home  government.  The  revenue  officials  of  the 
Crown  looked  to  the  governor  for  support  in  the  fulfilment 
of  their  duties,  and  it  is  only  fair  to  say,  in  this  connection, 
that  to  this  same  fountain-head  of  authority  the  Rhode  Island 
smugglers  looked,  with  an  assured  confidence,  the  happy 
result  of  long  experience,  that  their  governor  could  be  relied 
upon  to  temper  justice  with  mercy.  The  governors  of  the 
charter  colonies  —  Rhode  Island  and  Connecticut  —  were 
elected  annually  by  the  people,  and  instructed  by  the  As- 
sembly, and,  naturally,  they  leaned  for  support  upon  their 
constituents  rather  than  upon  the  English  government. 

The  cases  in  which  the  executive  of  a  popular  constituency, 
the  government  of  whose  colony  was  conducted  according  to 
the  terms  of  a  charter,  would  have  occasion  to  consult  the 
Plantation  Office  would  be  few  in  comparison  with  those  aris- 
ing in  a  Crown  colony.  The  correspondence  of  the  Rhode 
Island  governors  shows  an  almost  complete  absence  of  that 
atmosphere  of  local  political  intrigue  which  so  constantly 
recurs  in  the  despatches  of  the  governors  of  New  York  and 
Pennsylvania.  The  Ward-Hopkins  feud,  which  for  years 
divided  families  and  embittered  neighbors,  made  no  impres- 
sion upon  the  official  correspondence  with  the  mother 
country. 

The  letters  of  the  Rhode  Island  governors,  then,  deal 
almost  entirely  with  what  may  be  called  the  external  rela- 
tions of  the  colony.  In  matters  concerning  two  or  more 
colonies,  for  instance,  were  the  subject  of  discussion  bound- 
aries, or  military  levies,  or  rights  of  jurisdiction,  each  party 
concerned  hastened  to  lay  before  the  Lords  of  Trade  the 
claims  of  his  colony  to  consideration.  Or,  did  some  special 
feature  of  the  colonial  administration  attract  attention  in 
England,  special  inquiries  on  that  subject  were  made  of  the 
colonial  governor. 

While  the  governor  was  the  channel  of  communication,  in 
Rhode  Island  the  ordinary  course  of  procedure  was  this.  A 
committee  was  appointed  by  the  General  Assembly  to  draw 


xii  Introduction 


up  a  letter  embodying  the  facts  relating  to  some  subject  of 
interest  or  importance.  The  letter  was  then  presented  to 
the  Assembly  in  the  form  of  a  report ;  a  vote  of  approval,  or 
disapproval,  was  passed,  and  the  governor  was  instructed  to 
write  accordingly.  For  example,  in  the  sessions  of  October, 
1744,  it  was  voted  that  "Whereas,  the  committee  appointed 
to  prepare  the  draught  of  a  letter  of  instructions  to  be  sent 
to  the  agent  of  this  colony,  in  Great  Britain,  for  him  to 
oppose  the  taking  away  our  charter  privileges,  did  present 
the  same  for  the  consideration  of  this  Assembly ;  the  said 
draught  be,  and  it  is  hereby  accepted  and  approved  of,  and 
that  three  fair  copies  thereof,  be  signed  by  His  Honor,  the 
Governor,  and  sent  in  three  different  vessels,  to  the  said 
agent,  as  soon  as  may  be."  ^ 

It  will  be  here  observed  that  the  correspondence  of  the 
colonial  governor  with  the  Plantation  Office  was  not  always 
a  direct  personal  communication.  Often  it  was  so,  but  fre- 
quently —  and  more  frequently  in  the  later  period  of  colonial 
existence  —  the  observations  of  the  governor  were  addressed 
to  the  colonial  agent  in  London,  and  by  him  brought  to  the 
attention  of  the  Lords  of  Trade,  or  of  the  Lords  of  the 
Treasury,  or  of  prominent  members  of  Parliament,  as  best 
befitted  the  occasion.  The  agent  acted  with  the  governor 
as  a  medium  of  intercourse  with  the  home  government.  He 
was  accountable  to  the  colony  Assembly,  by  whom  he  was 
formally  accredited,  and  from  whom  he  received  a  somewhat 
precarious  and  intermittent  salary  in  return  for  his  services. 
In  the  correspondence  of  the  Governor  and  Company  of 
Rhode  Island  with  the  successive  colonial  agents  at  London 
we  have  an  interesting  aspect  of  our  colonial  history,  which 
has  never  yet  been  adequately  worked  out,  and  the  historical 
importance  of  which  is  always  underestimated,  and  that  is, 

1  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  97,  and  the  Assembly's  letter  on  p.  284 
of  this  volume.  Other  instances  may  be  found  in  Col.  Rcc,  V.  157, 
180,  190,  278,  282-284,  and  with  equal  frequency  throughout  the  years 
covered  by  this  volume. 


Introduction  xiii 


the  influence  of  English  life  and  thought  and  politics  —  in  a 
word,  of  English  contemporary  history  —  upon  the  history 
of  the  colonies.  This  influence  was  undoubtedly  very  great. 
Because  we  have  naturally  and  inevitably  studied  the  mili- 
tary aspects  of  our  history  more  thoroughly  than  its  institu- 
tional, economic,  or  social  sides,  therefore  the  influence 
which  England  exerted  upon  American  history  embodies  it- 
self to  our  minds  in  the  antagonistic  guise  of  a  tax  upon  tea, 
or  a  series  of  Navigation  Acts.  But  there  was  another  sort 
of  influence  exerted  by  England,  —  one  which  is  not  to  be 
found  in  the  statute-books,  an  influence  exerted  for  the  most 
part  unobtrusively  and  indirectly,  and  yet  one  which  bore 
an  important  share  in  moulding  and  developing  the  Ameri- 
can type  of  the  Anglo-Saxon  race.  English  precedent  and 
example  were  all-powerful  with  the  American  colonist.  The 
traditions  of  the  Atlantic  seaboard  were  those  of  England, 
whether  the  colonist  raised  his  voice  for  civic  freedom,  or 
anathematized  the  hereditary  enemies  of  his  race.  Richard 
Partridge,  writing  against  the  Sugar  Act  of  1733,  "because 
of  the  levying  a  Subsidy  upon  a  Free  People  without  their 
Knowledge  [and]  ag^.  their  consent,  who  have  the  libertys 
and  Imminitys  granted  them  [of]  Natural  born  Subjects,  and 
when  they  have  enough  to  do  to  raise  Taxes  for  their  own 
Support,"^  presents  the  good  old  English  point  of  view  no 
less  surely  than  does  Major  Samuel  Angell  of  the  Rhode 
Island  militia,  when  he  writes  to  Governor  Hopkins  of  the 
alleged  atrocities  committed  by  the  French  at  Oswego,  "  if 
Such  Usage  Wont  Rais  the  Sperrits  and  Warm  the  Blood 
of  Old  Olivers  Sons  I  know  not  What  Will."  ^  The  colonist 
received  alike  his  political  creed  and  his  household  furniture, 
his  library  and  the  fashion  of  his  garments,  from  London. 
The  very  statutes  of  the  colonial  assembly  speak  of  England 
as    "  home."  ^     Communication   with   the   mother  country, 


1  See  letter  of  February  28,  1733. 

2  See  letter  of  September  5,  1756. 

8  See  Col  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  60,  n;. 


xiv  Introduction 


though  slow,  was  continuous.  Especially  was  this  true  of 
a  seafaring  population  like  that  of  Rhode  Island,  many  of 
whose  wealthy  merchants  had  crossed  the  Atlantic  in  their 
own  good  ships.  English  protection  was  given  and  received 
as  a  matter  of  course.  English  supervision  of  the  details 
of  colonial  life  was,  on  the  whole,  far-reaching,  thorough, 
and  beneficent. 

The  governors  of  the  colonies  were  —  as  our  letters  tes- 
tify—  the  most  important  channel  of  communication  with 
England.  Their  information  from  home  presented  two 
points  of  view.  First,  that  of  the  Lords  of  Trade,  upon 
whom  devolved  the  business  of  colonial  administration.  This 
body  had  in  its  custody  all  the  records,  grants,  and  papers 
relating  to  the  colonies.  The  Lords  were  required  to  ascer- 
tain what  were  the  principal  products  and  industries,  to 
exact  frequent  reports  from  the  various  governors,  to  keep 
the  run  of  desirable  incumbents  for  colonial  offices,  to  be 
informed  as  to  the  action  of  the  colonial  Assemblies,  and  to 
give  ear  to  complaints  from  any  source.  Governors  were  in- 
structed to  correspond  both  with  the  Lords  of  Trade  and 
with  one  of  the  principal  secretaries  of  state ;  and  although 
this  procedure  was  changed  for  a  short  time  (i 752-1 766),  it 
was  to  these  officials  that  the  governors  usually  wrote  during 
the  later  colonial  period.  That  this  correspondence  was 
maintained  on  both  sides  with  unfailing  regularity  is  notori- 
ously not  the  case.  Many  men  of  distinction  served  on 
the  Commission  for  Trade  and  Plantations,  and  many  served 
faithfully  and  well.  On  the  other  hand  —  and  especially 
during  Walpole's  long  ascendency  ^  —  there  intervened  peri- 
ods of  what  Burke  described  as  "salutary  neglect."  It  is 
said  that  the  Duke  of  Newcastle,  when  Secretary  of  State, 
had  a  closet  full  of  despatches  from  American  governors 
which  had  lain  unopened  for  years,  and  the  wits  of  a  later 
generation  declared  that  George  Grenville  lost  America  be- 


1  From  1 72 1  to  1742. 


Introduction  xv 


cause  he  was  so  foolish  as  to  read  the  American  de- 
spatches. 

The  second  point  of  view  introduced  to  the  colonial  gov- 
ernor was  that  of  the  agent  who  represented  the  colony's 
interests  at  London.  His  position  demanded  that  the 
agent  should  be  a  man  of  affairs,  of  experience  and  judg- 
ment, possessing  common  sense,  discretion,  and  tact,  —  alive 
to  the  needs  of  his  colony,  yet  not  offensively  importunate 
to  those  in  the  great  world  whose  interest  he  should  find  it 
necessary  to  secure.  It  is  evident  that  the  charter  colonies 
stood  in  especial  need  of  such  an  intermediary.  The  condi- 
tions of  their  government  forbade  that  there  should  be  any 
personal  influence  exerted  by  their  executive  upon  the  official 
world  of  London.  Yet  never  has  there  been  a  time  when  per- 
sonal influence  counted  for  so  much  in  English  political  life 
as  in  the  first  three  quarters  of  the  eighteenth  century.  The 
royal  governor,  the  appointee  of  the  Crown,  had,  necessarily, 
a  more  or  less  powerful  coterie  of  friends  in  England.  For 
the  charter  governments,  such  friends  must  be  acquired  and 
maintained  by  the  persistent  efforts  of  the  colonial  agent. 

It  will  be  found  that  a  large  proportion  of  the  letters  here 
printed  are  those  of  the  two  agents  for  Rhode  Island,  Rich- 
ard Partridge  and  Joseph  Sherwood,  who  served  her  during 
this  period.  Both  these  men  were  members  of  the  Society 
of  Friends,  as  were  many  prosperous  and  influential  Rhode 
Islanders.  Partridge  was  the  son  of  Lieutenant-Governor 
William  Partridge  of  New  Hampshire,  who  was  a  man  of 
considerable  enterprise  and  dexterity.  He  was  put  forward 
by  the  popular  party  in  that  province  to  act  against  Lieuten- 
ant-Governor Usher,  who  had  been  appointed  in  the  interest 
of  the  heirs  of  the  Mason,  or  Allen,  claim.  "  Partridge  was," 
says  Belknap,  in  his  History  of  New  Hampshire,  "  a  native 
of  Portsmouth,  a  shipwright,  of  an  extraordinary  mechanical 
genius,  of  a  politic  turn  of  mind,  and  a  popular  man."  ^    His 


Vol.  I.  297. 


xvi  Introduction 


commission  as  lieutenant-governor  was  obtained  by  the  in- 
terest of  Sir  Henry  Ashurst,  and  was  dated  June  6,  1696. 
We  also  hear  of  him  in  quite  another  connection.  In  1696 
the  Lords  of  Trade  appointed  four  commissioners  to  investi- 
gate the  conditions  of  the  timber  supply  and  naval  stores 
which  New  England  might  be  expected  to  produce,  and  to 
encourage  the  colonists  to  foster  such  an  industry.  The  two 
commissioners  appointed  on  behalf  of  the  colonies  were 
William  Partridge  and  Robert  Lamb,  who  were  recom- 
mended by  Sir  Henry  Ashurst.  They  were  to  "  introduce 
trade  with  New  England  in  whatever  naval  materials  that 
province  could  produce  fit  for  the  use  of  the  royal  navy." 
It  is  certain  that  Partridge  made  a  very  good  profit  for  him- 
self as  well  as  for  the  colonies  out  of  the  timber  trade,  and 
even  had  the  temerity  to  send  his  masts  to  Portugal.  Lord 
Bellomont  wrote  home,  in  1700,  in  a  state  of  intense  indig- 
nation, that  Partridge  had  "  openly  boasted  of  a  voyage  by 
which  an  outlay  of  less  than  ;;i^300  netted  for  him  j[,i6oo  at 
Lisbon,  and  that  he  had  set  all  the  country  agog."  Partridge 
protested  that  his  acts  were  misrepresented,  and  that  he  only 
sent  to  Portugal  such  inferior  cargoes  as  were  not  good 
enough  for  the  Royal  Navy ;  and  it  is  probable  that  he  was 
backed  by  friends  at  court,  since  the  Lords  of  Trade  allowed 
his  ships  to  pass.*  It  was  probably  through  the  interest  of  his 
London  friends  that  Governor  Partridge  ^  established  his  son 
Richard  as  a  London  merchant.     His  daughter  Mary  mar- 

1  This  account  is  taken  from  /.  H.  U.  Studies,  extra  volume  XVII., 
"  Industrial  Experiments  in  the  British  Colonies  of  North  America," 
by  Eleanor  L.  Lord. 

2  An  inscription  on  a  monument  in  the  burying-ground  of  the  first 
parish  in  Newbury  states  that  "the  very  Honorable  William  Partridge 
Esqr  sustained  the  government  of  New  Hampshire  for  several  years 
and  departed  this  life  the  3d  of  Jan,  I72f,  in  the  75th  year  of  his  age." 
He  probably  moved  to  Newbury  about  171 5,  as  he  was  received  into 
the  First  Church  in  that  year.  According  to  the  entry  in  his  family 
Bible,  his  son  Richard  was  born  on  "  the  3*  day  of  Dec.  168 1  at  \  past 
3  p.  M."     Hist,  and  Gen.  Reg.,  XIII.  265. 


Introduction  xvii 


ried  Governor  Jonathan  Belcher  of  Massachusetts,  himself  a 
bit  of  a  courtier,  and  a  warm  friend  of  Richard  Partridge.  It 
was  due  to  his  brother-in-law's  exertion  among  the  Quakers 
of  Yorkshire  (so  ran  the  story)  that  the  money  for  Belcher's 
commission  as  Governor  of  New  Jersey  was  forthcoming,  in 
later  years.^  In  the  June  sessions  of  171 5  the  Assembly  of 
Rhode  Island  took  into  consideration  "  the  necessity  there 
is  for  this  colony  to  impower  an  agent  in  England,  to  trans- 
act for  this  colony  all  their  concerns,  which  they  have 
beyond  seas,  in  Great  Britain,  &c.,  and  the  damage  that  hath 
accrued  to  this  colony  for  want  thereof ;  "  whereupon  the 
Assembly  enacted  "  that  Mr.  Richard  Partridge,  of  London, 
in  Great  Britain,  &c.  be  empowered  as  an  agent  from  this 
colony,  to  represent  this  colony  before  the  King  and  council, 
or  otherwise,  as  the  affairs  of  this  colony  shall  require  ;  and 
to  be  allowed  for  his  salary,  for  the  performance  of  what  is 
needful  in  the  premises,  £,^^0  per  annum,  during  his  officiat- 
ing in  the  said  capacity."  ^ 

Partridge  held  this  appointment  until  his  death,  in  1759. 
At  times  during  these  years  he  represented  Connecticut  and 
New  Jersey,  as  well  as  Rhode  Island. 

Through  his  letters  and  those  of  his  successor,  Sher- 
wood, a  London  attorney,  the  governors  are  informed  of  the 
details  of  English  political  life,  the  town-talk  of  London,  the 
ups  and  downs  of  party  politics,  the  personal  disposition 
and  temper  of  the  leading  men  of  affairs,  the  drift  of  public 
opinion,  the  relations  of  the  Continental  powers  to  one  an- 
other and  to  England.  Were  one  to  judge  of  Partridge's 
standing  in  the  official  world  of  London  from  his  own  letters, 
he  would  seem  to  have  been  a  man  of  discretion  and  good 
sense,  who  gave  great  attention  to  detail,  and  was  possessed 
of  a  certain  tact  which  suggests  his  father's  "politic  turn  of 
mind,"  and  which  carried  him  into  a  sort  of  intimacy  with 
the  under-officials  of  the  great  departments  of  state. 

1  See  Mass.  Hist.  Soc.  Coll.,  6  sen,  VI,,  preface. 
3  Col.  Rec.  ofR.  /.,  IV.  187. 


xviii  Introduction 


We  find  him  securing  legal  advice  for  the  colony,^  and 
offering  shrewd  and  timely  suggestions  as  to  the  policy  to  be 
observed  by  the  colonial  government.^  He  assures  the  gov- 
ernor and  Assembly  of  his  untiring  zeal  for  their  interests. 
He  drops  a  word  of  warning  now  and  then.  Not  infre- 
quently he  adopts  a  tone  of  instruction  and  remonstrance 
which  savors  of  peremptoriness  toward  the  traders  and  farm- 
ers across  the  sea.^  Communication  was  slow  and  difficult ; 
indeed,  most  letters  were  written  in  duplicate.  Under  these 
circumstances  the  success  with  which  the  colony's  business 
was  conducted  depended  largely  upon  the  personal  abilities 
of  the  agent.  His  powers  were  necessarily  elastic.  The 
letter  of  agency  issued  to  Sherwood  in  1759  purports  to 
*'  enable  him  to  transact  perform  and  finish  all  such  Busi- 
nesses of  the  said  Colony  as  may  be  committed  to  him." 
Both  Partridge  and  Sherwood  frequently  ask  to  be  instructed 
respecting  the  course  of  action  desired  by  the  Assembly,  and 
carefully  disclaim  responsibility  *  in  the  colony's  affairs.  On 
the  other  hand,  we  find  throughout  the  Records  of  Assembly 
resolutions  appointing  a  committee  to  draw  up  instructions 
for  the  agent,^  to  whom  are  sent  pressing  solicitations  that 
he  should  urgently  forward  the  colony's  interests.^ 

Services  of  particular  importance  were  felt  to  deserve  spe- 
cial remuneration.  The  agent's  salary  was  not  munificent, 
and  further,  would  seem  to  have  been  usually  in  arrears. 
Partridge  writes,  in  1741,  and  sends  his  account  with  the 
colony,  showing  a  balance  of  ;2^2I3  in  his  favor,  which  he 
hopes  "  will  be  remitted  in  due  time,  with  a  further  Supply 

1  E.  g.,  letters  of  July  10,  1732;  4th  mo.  29,  1734;  and  December 
31.  1736. 

^  See  letters  of  February  4,  1732,  and  3  mo.  28,  and  July  28,  1743. 
^  See  letters  of  July  14,  1742;   May  8,  1744  ;   February  6,  1745. 

*  See  letters  of  May  2,  1740 ;  May  20,  174S  ;  June  8,  1763. 

*  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  79,  93,  97. 

«  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  I.,  VI.  322,  411,  433,  463. 


Introduction  xix 


to  enable  me  to  prosecute  the  Affairs  of  the  Government  and 
which  will  be  very  acceptable  to  me  ;"  ^  and  again  in  1744, 
respecting  an  obnoxious  bill  before  Parliament,  he  writes  for 
instructions  "together  with  Suitable  Remittances,  for  its 
pitty  the  Cause  shof^  be  Starved.  It  being  now  a  Consider, 
able  time  since  I  have  received  anything  from  Rhode  Is- 
land." ^  On  June  15,  when  the  termination  of  the  long- 
vexed  question  of  the  Massachusetts  boundary  seemed  to  be 
actually  in  sight.  Partridge  refers  to  an  assurance  made  him 
nine  years  earlier  "  of  the  Assemblys  Benevolence  when  the 
Boundary  Cause  was  over,"  and  leaves  the  sequel  "to  their 
Generosity." 

This  "  Boundary  Cause  "  absorbed  much  of  Partridge's 
time  and  attention  from  the  first  appeal  to  the  King  in 
Council,  in  1734,  down  to  the  final  decision,  in  1746.  The 
dispute  was  a  legacy  from  the  times  of  the  Plymouth  Colony, 
and  was  involved  in  unavoidable  confusion,  arising  from  ob- 
scurely worded  grants,  framed  by  men  whose  notions  of  the 
territory  they  were  parcelling  out  were  of  the  vaguest  possi- 
ble description.  It  was  impossible  to  lay  down  definite  lines 
of  demarcation  according  to  the  terms  of  the  charters.  One 
wonders,  not  that  there  were  boundary  disputes,  but  that  the 
conflicting  claims  were  ever  adjusted.  There  were,  however, 
practical  standards  of  adjustment.  The  sturdy  New  Eng- 
land settlers  who  took  up  the  land  soon  came  to  regard  pos- 
session and  immunity  from  taxes  as  the  two  determining 
conditions  of  their  allegiance.  There  grew  up  along  the 
disputed  territory  of  the  Attleborough  gore  a  lawless  popula- 
tion, only  too  ready  to  resort  to  intimidation  and  violence 
under  the  cover  of  a  disputed  right  of  jurisdiction.^  Each 
deed  of  violence  brought  reprisals,  and  the  northeastern 
corner  of  the  colony  became  a  veritable  debatable  land. 

In  1733  the  Rhode  Island  Assembly  voted  to  petition  the 

1  See  letter  of  May  15,  1 741.  ^  See  letter  of  May  8,  1744. 

8  See  Jonathan  Draper's  Deposition,  March  5,  1734,  p.  50. 


XX  Introduction 


King  for  a  settlement  of  the  dispute.  The  claim  set  forth 
was  to  the  gore  already  mentioned,  and  to  a  boundary  three 
miles  to  the  east  of  Narragansett  Bay,  according  to  the  terms 
of  the  charter.  The  result  was  that  commissioners  from 
New  York,  New  Jersey,  and  Nova  Scotia  were  appointed, 
in  1741,  to  hear  the  case  and  to  decide  the  points  at  issue.^ 
They  gave  Rhode  Island  the  gore,  but  only  a  portion  of  the 
territory  east  of  Narragansett  Bay  which  she  had  claimed. 
The  Massachusetts  claims  were  set  entirely  on  one  side. 
Both  colonies  appealed  from  the  decision  :  Rhode  Island 
because  she  hoped  for  more  territory  on  the  east,  and  Mas- 
sachusetts, from  the  decision  in  every  particular.  After  two 
years  of  hearings  and  rehearings  before  the  Plantation  Com- 
mittee of  the  Privy  Council,  the  decisionof  the  commission 
was  confirmed.'^  In  the  February  following,  Massachusetts 
petitioned  for  a  rehearing,  and  Partridge  immediately  filed  a 
counter-petition  to  prevent  this  "  Fraudulent  and  Clandes- 
tine Measure."  The  rehearing  was  denied,  and  in  May,  1746, 
Partridge  writes  to  Rhode  Island  that  at  length  the  Order  in 
Council,  confirming  the  judgment  of  1 741,  is  obtained.  But 
there  was  still  a  long  while  to  wait  before  the  patient  agent 
received  his  "handsom  Gratuity,"  promised  in  1734.^  Six- 
teen years  later  (in  August,  1750)  he  writes  Governor  Greene 
that  he  charges  ;^300  for  his  "  Extraordinary  Trouble  in  the 
Boundary  Affair  for  what  the  Gov":  then  for  the  time  being 
gave  me  Expectation  I  should  be  considered  in,  and  which 
I  hope  the  Colony  will  Judge  but  reasonable."  Throughout 
the  letters  of  Partridge  and  of  Sherwood,  we  find  almost 
complete  unanimity  of  feeling  between  them  and  the  colo- 
nial government.  Remonstrances  on  the  lack  of  remittances 
occur.     Sherwood  seems  to  have  been  hardly  judged  for  his 

1  See  Report  of  the  Lords  of  Trade,  December  21,  1738.  Also  let- 
ters of  Partridge,  June  29,  December  20,  1734  ;  January  29,  1735  ;  No- 
vember 3,  1738,  etc. 

3  See  letters  of  June  15  and  December  11,  1744. 

*  See  letter  of  December  20,  1734. 


Introduction  xxi 


perfectly  unavoidable  failure  to  secure  a  share  of  the  parlia- 
mentary grant  of  1756  for  Rhode  Island.  These  matters 
were  but  incidental.  Where  policy  was  in  question,  the 
agent  and  the  colony  felt  that  their  interests  were  one.  If 
the  agent  met  with  opposition,  it  came  from  other  colonies 
or  from  the  crown  officials.  He  had  no  thrusts  from  a 
crown  governor  to  parry.  Like  himself,  the  governor  feared 
only  the  Assembly.  A  perusal  of  the  agents'  letters  will 
show  their  care  for  the  colony's  interests  and  their  sympathy 
with  the  difficulties  which  she  encountered ;  while  they  en- 
deavor to  bring  before  their  constituents  the  point  of  view 
of  the  London  official  circles,  and  the  necessity  of  combining 
accuracy,  discretion,  formality,  and  untiring  diplomacy  in 
dealing  with  the  great  personages  of  court  and  state. 

We  turn  now  to  the  agents'  home  correspondents.  The 
eighteenth  century  was  in  Rhode  Island  —  as  in  all  the  colo- 
nies —  a  period  of  political  growth  and  development.  Before 
its  close  the  fringe  of  straggling  villages  and  townships  lining 
the  shores  of  Narragansett  Bay  had  grown  into  a  community 
which  recognized  the  fact  that  its  members  had  common 
interests  and  a  common  life. 

There  were  certain  factors  contributing  to  such  a  develop- 
ment as  this  in  all  the  plantations  of  the  Atlantic  seaboard. 
In  the  experience  of  Rhode  Island  there  were,  besides  these, 
local  causes  and  circumstances  which  helped  to  determine 
her  course  of  political  activity  as  a  colony,  and  have  since 
been  conspicuous  in  shaping  her  course  as  a  state.  The 
unconventionality,  verging  on  lawlessness,  of  the  early  set- 
tlers of  Rhode  Island  has  become  an  historical  proverb.  Pre- 
cisely as  the  eighteenth  century  was  about  to  open.  Lord 
Bellomont  described  their  government  as  "  the  most  irregu- 
lar and  illegal  .  .  .  that  ever  any  English  government  was,"  ^ 
and  that  reputation  it  long  maintained.  Each  man  did  that 
which  was  right  in  his  own  eyes,  and  guided  his  course  by 

1  W.  E.  Foster,  Stephen  Hopkins^  I.  3,  note. 


xxii  Introduction 


the  sense  of  individual  responsibility  which  lives  and  lets 
live,  even  to  the  point  of  becoming  individual  irresponsibility. 
The  force  of  reason  and  of  long-established  custom  will 
not  guide  a  community  of  men  who  are  thus  self-sufficient. 
They  will  insist  upon  maintaining  and  asserting  their  right 
of  individual  action.  They  will  prefer  to  act  as  units,  and  it 
is  the  man  of  strong  personality,  or  extraordinary  audacity, 
who  will  attract  them  and  become  their  leader,  never  the  man 
who  simply  embodies  a  principle,  or  appeals  to  the  law  of  the 
fathers.  If,  with  this  thought  in  mind,  we  look  into  the  his- 
tory of  the  seventy^five  years  which  preceded  the  Revolution 
for  the  individuals  ^ho  influenced  the  political  life  of  Rhode 
Island,  we  shall  find  not  a  few  of  them  among  her  governors. 

In  this  roll-call  the  name  of  Samuel  Cranston  meets  us 
upon  the  threshold  of  the  eighteenth  century.  Chosen  to 
be  governor  of  the  colony  by  twenty-eight  successive  reelec- 
tions  ( 1 698-1 727),  his  administration  may  be  fairly  looked 
upon  as  "the  first  of  that  series  of  influences  which  made 
the  eighteenth  century  in  Rhode  Island  a  period  of  develop- 
ment." ^  Unfortunately  none  of  Governor  Cranston's  cor- 
respondence is  now  in  the  archives  of  the  state  of  Rhode 
Island.  Eight  letters  bearing  his  signature  are  published  in 
the  fourth  volume  of  the  Colonial  Records  of  Rhode  Island. 
One  of  these  is  copied  from  The  New  York  Colonial  MSS., 
LI  1 1.  104,  and  the  others  are  taken  from  transcripts  of  the 
originals  in  the  Public  Record  Office.^ 

One  of  the  perplexing  problems  of  Governor  Cranston's 
time  was  the  definition  of  the  boundary  line  between  Rhode 
Island  and  Connecticut.  A  summary  of  the  case  for  Rhode 
Island  will  be  found  in  the  somewhat  lengthy  letter  with 
which  the  present  volume  begins.  This  document  sets  forth, 
in  the  quaint  phraseology  of  the  time,  the  sufferings  of  the 
early  settlers,  their  efforts  to  obtain  a  royal  charter  of  incor- 

1  Foster,  Stephen  Hopkins,  I.  7. 

2  These  transcripts  are  in  the  possession  of  the  John  Carter  Brown 
Library  of  Providence. 


Introduction  xxiii 


poration,  the  guile  with  which  the  Connecticut  agent,  Win- 
throp,  obtained  such  a  charter  from  Lord  Clarendon,  "  design- 
ing thereby  to  Eclips  this  Colony  of  all  the  Lands  on  the 
Main  Land  that  was  included  within  our  former  Charter," 
and  the  determination  of  the  colonists  to  stand  by  the  priv- 
ileges of  their  charter,  as  becomes  men  who  "have  a  Tinc- 
ture of  the  ancient  British  Blood  in  their  veines." 

Testimony,  reports,  and  memorials  bearing  upon  this 
matter  had  been  amassed  in  prodigal  profusion  for  the  edifi- 
cation and  instruction  of  the  Lords  of  Trade,  who  at  length,  in 
1723,  proposed  that  both  colonies  should  cut  the  Gordian 
knot  of  conflicting  boundary  lines  by  voluntarily  surrender- 
ing their  charters  and  annexing  themselves  to  New  Hamp- 
shire. This  proposition  the  contending  parties  considered 
with  a  solemnity  which  reflects  credit  upon  their  appreciation 
of  decorum  and  is  far  from  belying  their  sense  of  humor. 
Connecticut  declined  to  surrender  her  charter,  but  expressed 
entire  willingness  to  abide  by  the  royal  decision.  Rhode 
Island,  too,  objected  to  the  proposed  surrender  of  her  char- 
tered privileges,  and  her  agent.  Partridge,  sustains  Governor 
Cranston,  saying  pertinently,  "As  farr  as  I  can  learn  it  is 
not  only  impracticable  to  joyne  Rhode  Island,  Connec*.  and 
New  Hampshire  together  by  reason  of  the  distant  Situation 
of  the  Governments  but  it  would  be  very  Injurious  to  our 
Inhabitants."  ^  The  matter  was  referred  to  the  King  in 
Council,  and  the  point  at  issue,  namely,  whether  the  eastern 
boundary  of  Connecticut  was  Narragansett  Bay  or  the  Paw- 
catuck  River,  was  ultimately  decided  in  favor  of  Rhode 
Island.2 

Cranston's  successor  was  Joseph  Jencks  of  Pawtucket 
(then  included  within  the  township  of  Providence),  who  had 
served  the  colony  in  several  capacities  before  his  election  as 


'  See  p.  13. 

2  See  Order  in  Council,  February  8,  172^  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  IV. 
370. 


xxiv  Introduction 


governor.  The  boundary  of  this  small  colony  of  Rhode 
Island  was  in  a  state  of  chronic  readjustment,  and  in  1710 
Jencks  was  given  extraordinary  powers  for  six  months  as  a 
special  boundary  commissioner  to  come  to  some  settlement 
with  Colonel  Joseph  Dudley  regarding  the  Massachusetts 
line.^ 

His  efforts  proved  successful,  and  he  was  then  called  upon 
to  exert  himself  in  behalf  of  his  colony's  claim  against 
Connecticut,  by  an  appointment  to  act  with  Partridge,  in 
London,  to  "  manage  the  affairs  of  this  colony  for  the  set- 
tling of  the  bounds  between  this  colony  and  those  of  Massa- 
chusetts Bay  and  Connecticut,  and  all  other  business  that 
may  arise  or  happen."  ^  As  has  been  stated,  the  Connecti- 
cut claim  was  adjusted  in  February,  1727.  In  April,  Jencks, 
who  had  filled  the  position  of  deputy-governor  with  satisfac- 
tion to  himself  and  the  colony  since  his  return  from  England, 
in  1722,  was  called  upon  to  take  the  ofifice  of  governor,  left 
vacant  suddenly  by  Cranston's  death.  The  action  of  the 
Assembly  regarding  his  residence  indicates  the  prominence 
of  the  mercantile  and  trading  interest  in  the  colonial  govern- 
ment. It  was  promptly  voted  that  it  was  "  highly  neces- 
sary "  for  the  governor  of  the  colony  to  live  at  Newport, 
"the  metropolis  of  the  government,"  and  that  since  the 
removal  from  Pawtucket  would  be  "very  chargeable,"  p^^ioo 
should  be  allowed  Governor  Jencks  "  to  defray  the  charges 
of  removing  his  family  to  Newport."  ^  Jencks's  administra- 
tion was  brought  to  a  close  by  his  veto  of  a  bill  authorizing 
the  emission  of  ;^6o,ooo  in  bills  of  credit.  The  Assembly 
voted  his  dissent  null  and  void,  upon  technical  grounds. 
Both  parties  appealed  to  the  home  government,  which 
decided  that  neither  the  Governor  of  Rhode  Island  nor  the 
King  had  power  to  repeal  or  annul  an  act  of  the  General 


^  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  IV.  94,  for  the  appointment. 
2  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  VI.  286. 
8  Col.  Rec.  ofR.  /.,  IV.  388. 


Introduction  xxv 


Assembly.^  It  has  been  asserted  that  Jencks  had,  in  the 
spring  of  173 1,  declared  his  determination  not  to  accept 
another  reelection.  Possibly  this  decision  influenced  his 
uncompromising  attitude  on  the  paper  money  question.  Be 
that  as  it  may,  it  is  certain  that  in  the  following  May,  Wil- 
ham  Wanton,  a  prominent  merchant  of  Newport,  was  called 
to  the  position.  Wanton  was  the  first  representative  in 
public  life  of  a  family  which  gave  four  governors  to  the  Col- 
ony of  Rhode  Island.  It  seems  most  convenient  at  this 
point  to  depart  from  a  strictly  chronological  order  in  speak- 
ing of  the  Rhode  Island  governors  whose  correspondence 
lies  before  us,  and  to  combine  in  one  view  the  four  governors 
of  the  name  and  family  of  Wanton.^  Those  remaining  — 
the  two  Wards,  William  Greene,  and  Stephen  Hopkins  — 
may  be  conveniently  taken  up  as  a  second  group. 

The  Wantons  represented  the  most  attractive  phase  of 
colonial  life.  They  were  descendants  of  a  Massachusetts 
settler  of  the  seventeenth  century,  who  was  led  to  embrace 
the  doctrines  of  the  Quakers  from  admiration  and  sympathy 
for  their  sufferings  under  the  stern  religious  dispensation  of 
the  Puritan  colony.  Two  of  his  sons  —  John  and  William  — 
moved  to  Newport,  established  themselves  as  shipbuilders, 
and  soon  became  prominent  among  the  enterprising  citizens 
of  the  town.  Their  exploits  when  young  men  of  twenty- 
two  and  twenty-four  as  leaders  of  a  privateering  enterprise 
against  a  pirate  who  was  devastating  the  coasting-trade  of 
the  port  gained  them  a  local  reputation  for  enterprise  and 


1  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  IV.  457-461. 

2  The  years  of  administration  in  Rhode  Island  ran  from  May  to  May. 
William  Wanton  served  as  governor  from  May,  1732,  to  December, 

1733- 

John  Wanton  served  as  governor  from  December,  1733,  to  July,  1742. 

Gideon  Wanton  served  as  governor  from  May,  1745,  to  May,  1746. 

Gideon  Wanton  served  as  governor  from  May,  1 747,  to  May,  1 748. 

Joseph  Wanton  served  as  governor  from  May,  1769,  to  November, 
»775- 


xxvi  Introduction 


daring.  In  1697  they  equipped  and  manned  two  vessels, 
and  rid  Narragansett  Bay  of  a  French  man-of-war  whose 
depredations  had  driven  the  traders  from  the  seas,  and  this 
affair  seems  to  have  secured  for  them  the  notice  of  the 
Court  in  London.  We  find  an  existing  tradition  that  the 
venerable  father  of  the  family  argued  and  expostulated  in 
vain  against  an  enterprise  so  contrary  to  the  rules  -of  their 
society,  but  finding  his  sons  obdurate  he  concluded  his 
appeal  by  saying,  "  While  it  would  be  a  grief  to  my  spirit 
to  hear  that  ye  had  fallen  in  a  military  enterprise,  yet,  if  go 
ye  will,  remember  that  it  would  be  a  greater  grief  to  hear 
that  ye  were  cowards."  That  grief  was  spared  him.  The 
French  ship  was  captured,  proved  a  valuable  prize,  and  when, 
a  few  years  later,  the  brothers  visited  London,  they  were 
received  at  Court  and  presented  with  silver  plate  and  appro- 
priate heraldic  civilities.  William  Wanton  became,  in  1705, 
deputy  for  Newport  and  speaker  of  the  General  Assembly. 
He  took  part  in  the  Canada  expedition  of  1709,  was  bound- 
ary commissioner  in  the  dispute  with  Connecticut,  and  served 
either  as  deputy  or  assistant  until  1732.  In  that  and  the 
following  year  he  was  elected  governor.  He  died  in  1734, 
sincerely  mourned  by  his  fellow  townsmen.  He  is  described 
as  a  "  polished  gentleman,  of  easy,  polite,  and  engaging  man- 
ners, very  hospitable  and  fond  of  entertaining  his  friends." 
He  was  succeeded  as  governor  by  his  brother,  John  Wanton, 
a  prominent  figure  in  the  political  and  social  life  of  Rhode 
Island  during  thirty-six  years.  In  1706  he  represented 
Newport  in  the  Assembly,  and  was  appointed  colonel  of  the 
regiment  raised  for  the  Canada  expedition  of  1709.  After- 
ward, returning  to  civic  life,  he  represented  Newport  from 
17 1 2  to  1 72 1,  in  which  year  he  was  elected  deputy-gov- 
ernor. In,  or  about,  the  year  17 12,  he  publicly  joined  the 
society  of  the  Quakers,  and  from  that  time  travelled  much 
as  a  religious  teacher,  and  became  a  powerful  and  eloquent 
speaker,  whose  preaching  attracted  multitudes,  and  whose 
great  wealth  was  devoted  to  deeds  of  benevolence.    We  read 


Introduction  ^  xxvii 


with  interest  of  Governor  John  Wanton  preaching  a  sermon 
on  the  vanity  of  earthly  greatness  before  the  congregation  of 
Friends  in  Newport,  and  so  far  honoring  the  dignity  of  his 
official  position,  on  the  occasion,  as  to  appear  before  the 
brethren  in  his  governor's  cloak  of  scarlet  lined  with  blue. 
It  was  John  Wanton  who,  as  deputy-governor,  in  173 1, 
summoned  the  Assembly  (when  Governor  Jenks  refused  to 
do  so)  that  the  deputies  might  dispute  the  right  of  the  gov- 
ernor to  veto  an  act  of  Assembly,  and  in  this  remarkable  pro- 
ceeding he  was  upheld  by  the  officers  of  the  Crown.  John 
Wanton  was  deputy-governor  from  1729  to  1733;  he  was 
then  elected  governor  and  held  the  office  until  his  death  in 
1742.  The  last  two  years  of  his  administration  were  filled 
with  preparations  for  the  war  with  Spain  and  the  resulting 
expedition  against  the  Spanish  West  Indies.  In  this  expedi- 
tion of  1740  against  Cartagena,  as  in  that  of  1745  against 
Louisbourg,  the  most  effective  service  contributed  by  Rhode 
Island  was  through  her  privateers.  Between  1741  and 
1743  ^  twenty-two  ships  were  sent  out  by  the  merchants  of 
Newport.  Two  hundred  of  the  colony  militia  were  despatched 
to  Jamaica  in  the  summer  of  1740,^  where  they  became  vic- 
tims of  the  climate  and  yellow  fever.  In  the  following  year 
reinforcements  were  raised  for  General  Wentworth's  attack 
upon  Santiago,  and  there  too  failure  and  hardship  awaited 
the  English  forces.  The  lack  of  harmony  and  cooperation 
between  Wentworth  and  Admiral  Vernon  made  it  necessary 
to  abandon  the  expedition. 

That  John  Wanton,  the  Quaker  preacher,  should  issue 
military  commissions,  and  take  other  violent  measures  as 
chief  executive  of  the  colony,  led  to  outspoken  remonstrance 
from  his  spiritual  co-workers.  A  visiting  committee  was 
sent  to  point  out  to  the  aged  governor  the  error  of  his  ways. 
They  were  doubtless  politely  received,  and  were  briefly  in- 

^  See  lists  in  Sheffield,  Privateersmen  of  N^ewport,  p.  44. 
^  Col.  Rec.  ofR.  /.,  IV.  si^- 


xxviii  Introduction 


formed  that  in  no  particular  had  their  governor  "  done  vio- 
lence to  the  law  of  conscience,  but  in  all  concerns  listening 
to  the  still  small  voice  of  divine  emanation,  and  being  obedi- 
ent thereto."  ^ 

In  1745  another  member  of  the  Wanton  family  became 
the  chief  executive  of  the  colony.  This  was  Gideon,  a 
nephew  of  William  and  John  Wanton,  and  like  them  a 
prosperous  Newport  merchant.  For  ten  years  he  had  been 
the  colony  treasurer.  From  1745  to  1748  he  and  William 
Greene  (of  whom  more  will  be  said  in  connection  with  another 
phase  of  the  colony's  history)  filled,  alternately,  the  position 
of  governor.  Their  correspondence  during  these  years  bears 
evidence  of  the  part  taken  by  Rhode  Island  in  the  Louis- 
bourg  expedition  of  1745.  Shirley's  appeal,  in  January,  with 
its  carefully  detailed  scheme  of  attack,^  occasioned  a  special 
session  of  the  Assembly,^  wherein  it  was  resolved  to  equip 
the  colony  sloop  with  all  necessary  warlike  stores,  and  to 
man  her  with  one  hundred  and  thirty  able-bodied  seamen, 
that  "she  immediately  proceed  to  join  the  forces  raised  by 
the  Province  of  the  Massachusetts  Bay,"  *  to  sail  for  Cape 
Breton.  The  terms  of  this  levy  were  somewhat  changed  a 
few  months  later,^  when  the  crew  of  the  sloop  was  reduced 
to  ninety  men,  and  it  was  decided  to  enlist  three  companies 
of  militia,  of  fifty  men  each.  One  conjectures  that  the 
"able-bodied  seamen"  of  Narragansett  Bay  would  prefer  to 
man  other  vessels  than  those  of  the  colonial  government 
in  these  piping  times  of  privateering.  An  act  was  also 
passed  "for  encouraging  soldiers  to  enlist  to  go  in  the  in- 
tended expedition  against  the  French  settlements  on  the 
island  of  Cape  Breton,  in  the  Pay  of  the  Province  of  the 
Massachusetts."^     In  one  respect  the  eager  Shirley  found 

'  Rider's  Historical  Tract  No.  3,  p.  55. 

2  See  Shirley's  letter,  p.  298. 

'See  Greene's  letter,  p.  306. 

<  Col.  Rec.  ofR.  /.,  V.  loi. 

^  At  the  regular  session,  in  March. 

6  Col.  Rec.  ofR.  /.,  V.  103,  105. 


Introduction  xxix 


that  his  preparations  had  been  already  anticipated.  He 
intimated  that  the  "frequent  and  very  large  Emissions  of 
Paper  Bills  of  Credit  ...  of  late  made  for  the  Conveniency 
of  the  Inhabitants  "  of  Rhode  Island  would  suggest  that  at 
least  ^^  one  Emission  for  his  Majesty's  Service,  and  for  the 
Support  of  the  Common  Cause  of  the  Colonies  of  New  Eng- 
land "  ^  might  be  fairly  expected.  The  loyalty  of  Rhode 
Island  always  rose  to  an  emergency  of  this  nature.  The 
Assembly  had  already  voted  an  emission  of  £62 $o  "for 
defraying  the  charge  and  expense  of  both  land  and  sea 
forces,"  2 

The  troops  thus  provided  for  sailed  with  the  Connecticut 
detachment  in  the  early  spring,  and  were  reported  safe 
within  the  harbor  of  Canso,  on  April  26,  by  Captain  Fones, 
of  the  colony  sloop  Tartar, — having  already  experienced  the 
excitement  of  being  chased  by  a  French  cruiser.  Just  two 
months  later  (on  June  26),^  Captain  Fones  sent  home  his 
graphic  account  of  the  engagement  in  Famme  Goose  Bay, 
which  prevented  the  relief  of  Louisbourg  by  the  French. 

Much  of  the  patriotic  zeal  of  the  Rhode-Islanders  was 
devoted  to  enterprises  which  partook  of  profit  as  well  as 
adventure.  The  merchantmen  of  Newport  and  Bristol  were 
easily  converted  into  privateers,  and  more  than  one  fortune 
was  brought  home  from  the  Spanish  Main,  One  of  these 
keen-witted  patriots  was  said  to  have  visited  fifteen  hundred 
miles  of  Spanish  territory,  and  the  foundations  of  many  a 
prosperous  mercantile  house  were  laid  in  the  course  of  the 
reprisals,  and  the  illicit  trading,  for  which  the  letters  of 
marque  afforded  so  good  an  opportunity. 

Both  Shirley  and  Pepperell  were  especially  anxious  to 
obtain  seamen  for  manning  the  Vigilant,  a  64-gun  ship  cap- 
tured from  the  French,  and  a  most  valuable  addition  to  the 
squadron  before  Louisbourg,     The  Assembly  was  willing 

1  See  Shirley's  letter,  p,  320.  ^  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  I.,  V,  105. 

8  See  letter  on  p.  349. 


XXX  Introduction 


that  two  hundred  should  be  enlisted.  Shirley  writes  from 
Boston,  "  I  find  my  endeavors  will  be  to  little  purpose,  whilst 
all  mariners  subject  to  be  impressed  here  into  His  Majesty's 
service,  fly  to  Rhode  Island  to  avoid  it,  (as  indeed  has  been 
long  the  practice,)  and  are  there  sheltered  and  encouraged, 
where  (I  am  credibly  informed,)  there  are  at  this  time  many 
hundreds  of  foreign  seamen  daily  walking  the  streets  of 
Newport,  whilst  scarce  one  is  to  be  found  in  Boston  ;  from 
whence  I  am  assured  in  particular,  that  upwards  of  twenty 
have  secretly  fled  towards  your  colony  from  my  impress 
warrants,  within  these  last  two  or  three  days  ;  "  and  he  begs 
Governor  Wanton  not  to  permit  his  colony  "  to  be  an  assy- 
lum  to  all  mariners  coming  into  New  England,  for  screening 
themselves  from  His  Majesty's  service."  ^  Upon  the  recep- 
tion of  this  indignant  remonstrance  the  Assembly  voted  to 
impress  forty  seamen,  should  such  a  measure  be  necessary  in 
order  to  fill  up  the  quota  already  provided  for. 

Perhaps  the  Rhode-Islanders  felt  that  their  zeal  might 
appear  somewhat  lukewarm  beside  that  of  the  enthusiastic 
levies  who  had  toiled  day  and  night  in  the  trenches  before 
Louisbourg,  strong  in  the  conviction  that  in  fighting  Roman 
Catholics  they  fought  idolatry  and  that  the  sword  of  the 
Lord  was  in  their  hands.  At  all  events,  the  Assembly,  in 
this  same  June  session,  "cast  an  anchor  to  windward"  by 
appointing  a  committee  "to  extract  from  the  records,  the 
several  acts  and  votes  passed  by  the  General  Assembly, 
respecting  the  expedition  against  Cape  Breton,  in  order  to 
be  sent  to  the  agent ;  and  that  they  write  a  letter,  to  be 
signed  by  His  Honor,  the  Governor,  and  to  be  sent  home, 
with  said  votes,  setting  forth  the  reasons  of  this  colony's 
conduct  in  respect  to  their  not  joining  in  the  expedition 
sooner  than  they  did,  to  be  made  use  of  in  the  defence  of 
this  colony,  if  there  be  occasion."  ^     Before  the  summer 


1  This  letter  is  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  136. 
3  Col.  Rec.  ofR.  /.,  V.  123. 


Introduction  xxxi 


closed  —  as  if  answering  in  anticipation  the  questioning  atti- 
tude of  his  clients  —  Richard  Partridge  writes  from  London/ 
"  Here  is  an  Express  lately  arrived  to  the  \J?  of  the  Admi- 
ralty from  Boston  of  the  i*.*  June  giving  Some  acco*  of  the 
progress  of  the  said  Expedition,  about  which  the  Ministry 
and  People  here  are  mighty  Intent  and  fond  off,  looking 
upon  it  of  very  great  Consequence  to  this  Kingdom  as  well 
as  to  our  Plantations,  and  therefore  are  very  much  pleased 
with  the  New  England  People  for  Undertaking  it ;  but  I 
have  had  it  several  times  thrown  at  me  as  if  Rhode  Island 
wou'd  contribute  very  little  if  anything  at  all  towards  it, 
And  very  lately  as  if  they  were  so  far  from  affording  their 
Assistance  that  when  the  Sailors  belonging  to  the  Kings 
Men  of  War  or  other  Ships  of  War  had  deserted  and  got 
into  Rhode  Island  Government  they  were  there  harboured 
and  protected  ...  if  these  things  shou'd  prove  true  it  may 
make  up  hill  work  for  me,  both  at  Court  and  at  Parliament." 
And  then  the  indefatigable  Partridge  proceeds  to  write  to 
the  Clerk  of  the  Privy  Council,^  assuring  him  of  the  unswerv- 
ing loyalty  and  devotion  of  the  colony  to  British  interests, 
as  attested  by  the  fact  that  her  merchants  raised  ;^8ooo 
and  equipped  a  20-gun  ship  for  the  Cape  Breton  expedition. 
A  summing-up  of  the  case  for  Rhode  Island  is  given  in 
Partridge's  petition  for  the  reimbursement  of  the  expenses 
incurred,^  but  it  was  not  until  the  April  of  1748  that  he 
could  write  to  Governor  Wanton  that  the  House  of  Commons 
had  resolved  "that  a  Sum  not  exceeding  ;^6332.i2.io.  be 
granted  for  Our  Colony's  Expence  in  the  Cape  Breton 
Expedition." 

The  unfortunate  little  squadron  which  started  to  relieve 
Annapolis  Royal,  and  was  wrecked  off  Mt.  Desert,  is  like- 
wise the  subject  of  a  somewhat  voluminous  correspondence, 


1  See  letter  on  p.  353. 
^  See  letter  on  p.  359. 
8  See  p.  412. 


xxxii  IntrodMction 


in  which  the  agent  and  the  governor  discuss  at  length  the 
prospects  of  reimbursement,  and  the  necessary  formaUties  to 
be  observed. 

The  administration  of  the  fourth  Governor  Wanton  brings 
us  to  a  later  generation  in  the  annals  of  the  colony,  although 
not  in  those  of  the  Wanton  family.  Joseph  Wanton  was  a 
son  of  that  William  who  was  governor  from  May,  1732,  to 
December,  1733,  and  first  cousin  to  Gideon,  whose  corre- 
spondence has  just  been  discussed.  His  first  year  of  office 
fell  at  a  time  when  the  political  feud  known  to  us  as  the 
Ward-Hopkins  controversy  had  just  been  formally  closed  by 
a  political  treaty  between  the  contending  factions.  Origi- 
nating some  fifteen  years  earlier  in  the  attempt  of  the  citizens 
of  Providence,  backed  by  the  farmers  of  the  outlying  dis- 
tricts, to  obtain  a  portion  of  the  political  power  and  prestige 
which  had  been  in  the  hands  of  the  Newport  merchants  for 
so  long  a  time  that  the  memory  of  man  ran  not  to  the  con- 
trary, this  local  struggle  for  the  political  leadership  of  the 
colony  soon  degenerated  into  an  exchange  of  bitter  personal 
abuse,  and  a  series  of  annual  political  intrigues.  The  echoes 
of  the  controversy  had  not  yet  died  away  when  the  last 
Wanton  took  his  seat  in  the  governor's  chair,  and  a  letter  of 
his  son,  Joseph  Wanton,  Jr.,  whose  sympathies  were  with 
the  Providence  party,  shows  how  strong  was  still  the  dread 
of  a  victorious  Ward,  —  a  vision  which  his  opponents  could 
only  lay  by  the  potent  name  of  Hopkins. 

For  several  years  before  revolutionary  hostilities  were  actu- 
ally begun,  acts  of  violence  were  not  uncommon  in  the  colo- 
nial seaports,  where  a  mob  of  rough  fellows  could  be  easily 
collected,  and  where  few  townsmen  felt  disposed  to  venture 
their  persons  and  property  and  incur  the  ill-will  of  their  fel- 
low citizens  in  any  effort  to  protect  or  uphold  the  customs 
officials.  Newport  was,  like  other  ports,  the  scene  of  reve- 
nue riots  in  1765,  and  in  the  ensuing  investigation  and  re- 
crimination Governor  Wanton  seems  to  have  sided  with  the 
provincials.    He  writes  to  Lord  Hillsborough,  when  called  to 


Introduction  xxxiii 


account  for  the  destruction  of  the  Liberty,  **  how  unkind  and 
ungentlemanly-like  it  is  for  officers,  sent  abroad  by  the 
crown  to  reside  in  the  colonies,  by  every  means  in  their 
power  to  traduce  and  even  falsely  accuse  his  majesty's  faith- 
ful subjects  of  this  Colony  to  their  sovereign  and  his  minis- 
ters of  state."  ^  His  attitude  in  the  affair  of  the  Gaspee  is 
too  well  known  to  require  elucidation  here,^ 

Joseph  Wanton  was  elected  governor  for  the  last  time  in 
April,  1775.  A  few  days  later  a  special  session  of  the 
Assembly  was  held  at  Providence  to  consider  the  Boston 
Port  Bill.  Almost  simultaneously  with  the  announcement  of 
this  new  disciplinary  legislation  came  the  news  of  the  fight 
at  Lexington.  The  deputies  prom'ptly  passed  a  resolution 
stating  that  whereas  they  were  surrounded  with  fleets  and 
armies  threatening  immediate  destruction,  "to  restore  peace 
to  the  minds  of  the  good  people  of  this  Colony,  it  appears 
absolutely  necessary  to  this  Assembly  that  a  number  of  men 
be  raised  and  embodied,  properly  armed  and  disciplined,  to 
continue  in  this  Colony  as  an  army  of  observation,  to  repel  any 
insult  or  violence  that  may  be  offered  to  the  inhabitants  ; "  ^ 
and  it  was  voted  to  raise  fifteen  hundred  men  for  that  pur- 
pose. To  this  measure  Governor  Wanton  and  three  assist- 
ants dissented,  on  the  ground  that  it  would  be  fatal  to  the 
preservation  of  the  colony's  charter  privileges,  would  pave 
the  way  to  civil  war,  and  be  an  open  violation  of  their  official 
oath  of  allegiance.  When  the  May  session  opened,  the  Gov- 
ernor was  too  ill  to  attend.  He  sent  an  urgent  message  to 
the  Assembly,  begging  the  Colony  to  seek  prosperity  and 
happiness  in  its  connection  with  Great  Britain,  and  to  avoid 
that  ruin  and  destruction  which  "  some  of  the  orders  of  the 
late  Assembly  must  inevitably  involve  them  in."  The  As- 
sembly was  in  no  mood  to  turn  back.     It  forwarded  military 

1  Col.  Rec.  ofR.  /.,  VII.  42. 

^  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.I.,  VII.,  for  the  correspondence  and  evidence 
upon  the  subject. 

3  Col.  Rec.  OfR.  /.,  VII.  310. 


xxxiv  Introduction 


commissions  for  the  Army  of  Observation  to  the  governor 
for  his  signature  ;  and  he  promptly  refused  to  sign  them.  In 
this  emergency  the  Assembly  took  the  extraordinary  step  of 
declaring  Governor  Wanton's  election  null  and  void,  on  the 
ground  that  he  had  not  appeared  to  take  the  oath  of  office 
(although  prevented  by  illness),  and  that  he  had  refused  to 
sign  the  military  commissions.  "  By  all  which  "  (says  the 
resolution)  "  he  hath  manifested  his  intentions  to  defeat  the 
good  people  of  these  colonies  in  their  present  glorious  strug- 
gle to  transmit  inviolate  to  posterity  those  sacred  rights 
which  they  have  received  from  their  ancestors."  In  June, 
Wanton  appeared  and  demanded  to  be  sworn  into  office,^ 
in  a  message  dealing  at  some  length  with  the  various  points 
at  issue.  His  justification  was  not  satisfactory,  and  in  the 
autumn  session  following,  the  Assembly  pronounced  the 
office  of  governor  vacant,  and  Joseph  Wanton  "  totally 
inimical  to  the  rights  and  liberties  of  America,  and  therefore 
rendered  totally  unfit  to  sustain  the  said  office."  ^ 

There  has  seemed  to  be  an  advantage  in  grouping  political 
and  military  events  about  personalities  so  similar  in  character 
and  mental  poise  as  were  the  four  Wantons.  Of  the  other 
Rhode  Island  governors  in  the  period  under  review  —  the 
Wards,  William  Greene,  and  Stephen  Hopkins  —  the  last- 
named  left  an  impress  upon  the  Rhode  Island  of  his  time  far 
more  lasting  than  that  made  by  his  contemporaries  and 
rivals.  Hopkins  began  his  political  life  as  representative  for 
Scituate  in  1732,  and  served  in  that  capacity  for  six  years. 
In  1 74 1  he  came  to  Providence,  and  from  that  time  his 
name  is  identified  with  the  public  life  of  his  new  home, 
where  he  soon  became  a  guiding  spirit.  In  1744  he  was 
sent  as  deputy  to  the  Assembly,  and  served  with  but  two 
intermissions  until  1752.  In  1750  he  was  one  of  a  commit- 
tee appointed  to  report  upon  the  emissions  of  bills  of  credit 


1  See  his  letter  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  VII.  336. 

2  Col.  Rec.  ofR.  /.,  VII.  393. 


Introduction  xxxv 


made  by  the  colony.^  This  committee  was  instructed  to 
draw  up  the  answers  to  certain  queries  of  the  Lords  of 
Trade,  and  their  report  is  a  statement  of  facts,  pure  and 
simple.  The  bearing  of  these  facts  upon  the  prosperity  of 
the  colony,  and  the  ruinous  policy  of  the  clamor  for  paper 
emissions,  —  which  few  public  men  in  a  community  governed 
by  popular  elections  could  withstand,  —  is  set  forth  by  Gov- 
ernor William  Greene,  in  his  message  to  the  Assembly,  and 
that  in  terms  which  admit  no  equivocal  interpretation. 

In  the  following  year  Hopkins  was  made  chief  justice  of 
the  Superior  Court,  his  qualifications  being  those  of  many  a 
magistrate  elected  to  fill  the  position  of  judge  by  his  fellow 
townsmen  because  of  his  well-known  integrity  and  solid 
common  sense.  He  was  still  chief  justice  when  elected  gov- 
ernor in  May,  1755.  Hopkins  resigned  the  former  position, 
and  a  new  chief  justice  was  elected,  but  did  not  qualify  for 
the  office.  The  Rhode  Islanders  turned  back  to  Hopkins, 
and  in  the  August  sessions  of  the  Assembly  he  was  again 
called  upon  to  fill  the  position,  and  held  it,  together  with  that 
of  governor,  until  May,  1756,  when  a  new  chief  justice  was 
chosen. 

Hopkins's  first  administration  coincided  with  the  opening 
of  the  French  and  Indian  War.  As  a  delegate  to  the  pro- 
vincial congresses  of  1746  and  1754,  he  had  become  familiar 
with  plans  for  military  aggression  and  defence,  and  had 
learned  the  necessity  of  careful  organization  and  combined 
effort  on  the  part  of  the  colonies.  He  had  listened  to  Frank- 
lin's "  Plan  of  Union,"  and  felt  with  him  that  there  was  no 
repose  for  the  thirteen  American  colonies  so  long  as  the 
French  were  masters  of  Canada. 

Early  in  1755  Rhode  Island  sent  one  hundred  men  to 
Crown  Point,  and  in  August,  upon  the  arrival  of  the  news 
of  Braddock's  defeat,  the  Governor  called  a  special  session 
of  the  Assembly  and  asked  for  reinforcements.     Another 

1  This  report  is  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /,,  V.  283. 


xxxvi  Introduction 


hundred  and  fifty  were  forthcoming,  to  be  "  sent  by  land 
unto  Albany,"  and  by  the  end  of  the  year,  successive  addi- 
tions had  brought  the  number  of  the  colony's  levies  up  to 
seven  hundred  and  fifty.  Shirley's  letter  of  January  2,  1756, 
gives  his  proposed  plan  of  campaign  for  the  coming  year, 
which  was  to  prove  so  full  of  cruel  disappointments  for  him  ; 
and  the  progress  (or  lack  of  progress)  during  the  summer 
months  is  detailed  in  the  letters  from  Winslow,  Angell, 
Governors  Shirley  and  Hardy  of  New  York,  and  others  who 
figured  less  conspicuously  upon  the  scene  of  war. 

Great  anxiety,  amounting  almost  to  panic,  was  felt  upon 
receiving  news  of  the  loss  of  Oswego,  Governor  Hopkins 
writes  to  Lord  Loudoun  in  October  that  Rhode  Island  will 
augment  her  quota  from  sixty  to  four  hundred  men,  who 
shall  "move  forward  with  the  Utmost  expedition."  They 
were  not  called  upon  to  do  so,  as  Loudoun  replied  that  the 
season  was  too  far  advanced  to  undertake  military  opera- 
tions, and  in  November  the  troops  were  disbanded.  The 
usual  appeal  for  men  came  in  the  following  February,  and 
a  contingent  of  four  hundred  was  voted.  Before  the  tardy 
spring  had  fairly  established  her  foothold  in  bleak  New  Eng- 
land, evidence  arrived  of  a  new  spirit  which  had  breathed 
upon  that  exceedingly  material  stronghold,  the  Colonial 
Office.  William  Pitt  was  Secretary  of  State  from  December, 
1756,  to  April,  1757,  and  his  letters  of  February  4  and  19 
were  a  call  to  arms  which  infused  energy  and  enthusiasm 
even  into  the  formalities  of  official  correspondence.  Unfor- 
tunately for  the  colonies,  Pitt's  term  of  office  was  too  brief 
to  enable  him  at  this  time  to  reconstruct  the  organization  of 
the  army  and  the  personnel  of  the  military  staff.  The  cam- 
paign of  1757  closed  even  more  discouragingly  than  that  of 
the  previous  year,  for  upon  the  loss  of  Fort  William  Henry 
no  fate  seemed  too  gloomy  for  the  panic-stricken  forebodings 
of  the  Americans,  The  atrocities  of  the  Indians  (bad  in 
reality)  were  exaggerated,  and  by  every  post  the  news  was 
expected  that  the  P'rench  were  in  New  York.     Pitt's  char- 


Introduction  xxxvii 


acterization  of  the  season's  operations  as  "  the  last  inactive 
and  unhappy  Campaign"  (writing  in  December)  was  no 
overestimate  of  the  situation.  Rhode  Island  did  exert  her 
"utmost  endeavors"  in  response  to  the  summons  of  the 
great  war  minister,  and  in  March,  1758,  put  one  thousand 
men  into  the  field.  The  military  successes  of  the  next  two 
years  —  Ticonderoga,  Niagara,  Louisbourg,  and  Quebec  — 
are  too  well  known  to  require  description  here.  Major  Wall's 
letter  of  September  17,  1758,  tells  a  later  generation  of  the 
part  played  by  the  Rhode  Island  troops  in  taking  Fort 
Frontenac.^  Again,  in  1759,  a  regiment  of  one  thousand 
men  was  voted,  since  "the  King  hath  been  pleased,  by  a 
letter  from  the  Right  Honorable  William  Pitt,  Esq.  ...  to 
acquaint  this  colony  that  he  expects  the  several  governments 
will  raise  at  least  as  many  men  as  they  respectively  raised 
the  last  year,  and  as  many  more  as  their  circumstances  will 
admit." 

In  the  Seven  Years'  War,  as  in  that  of  1745,  the  part 
taken  by  Rhode-Islanders  was  played  far  more  upon  sea 
than  upon  land.  Newport  led  all  other  colonial  ports  in  the 
number  of  her  privateersmen.^  More  than  sixty  vessels 
were  commissioned.  Some  which  had  seen  similar  service 
ten  years  before  were  again  fitted  out  for  expeditions  against 
the  French.  Commodore  Abraham  Whipple  was  said  to 
have  captured  twenty-three  prizes  in  one  year's  cruise.  Shef- 
field tells  us^  that  a  prize  when  captured  was  brought  in 
and  condemned,  and  then  commissioned  under  English  colors 
to  serve  against  her  old  masters.  The  French  retaliated  by 
lying  in  wait  for  the  slave-traders  who  ran  from  Newport 
with  cargoes  of  rum  to  the  African  coast,  and  thence  to  the 
West  Indies  with  negro  slaves.  In  this  connection  a  quota- 
tion giving  the  experience  of  Governor  Joseph  Wanton  may 
be  found  interesting :  "  I,  Joseph  Wanton,  being  one  of  the 

1  In  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  VI.  166. 

2  Sheffield,  Privateerstnen  of  Newport,  pp.  52-55,  gives  a  list. 
8  Sheffield,  pp.  27-29. 


xxxviii  Introduction 


people  called  Quakers,  and  conscientiously  scrupulous  about 
taking  an  oath  upon  solemn  affirmation,  say  that  on  the  ist 
day  of  the  month  commonly  called  April,  a.  d,  1758,  I 
sailed  from  Newport  in  the  Snow,  King  of  Prussia,  with  a 
cargo  of  124  hogsheads  of  rum,  twenty  barrels  of  rum,  and 
other  cargo  ;  that  on  the  twentieth  day  of  the  month  called 
May,  I  made  Cape  Mount  on  the  west  coast  of  Africa ;  that 
I  ran  down  the  coast  and  traded  until  I  arrived  at  Annamibo, 
where,  while  at  anchor,  on  the  twenty-third  day  of  the  month 
called  July,  when  I  had  on  board  fifty-four  slaves,  twenty 
ounces  of  gold-dust,  and  sixty-five  hogsheads  of  rum,  I  was 
taken  by  a  French  privateer  of  sixty  guns,  fitted  out  of  Bor- 
deaux, called  LeCompte  of  St.  Florentine,  having  on  board 
between  500  and  600  men,  while  my  vessel  had  but  three 
small  pieces  and  eleven  men."  The  injury  to  the  commerce 
of  Newport  during  this  period  of  plunder  and  reprisal  was 
very  great,  and  it  was  during  these  years  that  the  sister  city 
at  the  head  of  Narragansett  Bay  began  her  political  and  com- 
mercial rivalry. 

Under  the  leadership  of  such  men  as  Stephen  Hopkins 
and  James  Brown,  the  father  of  the  "Four  Brothers"  of 
Revolutionary  times,^  Providence  had  become  prosperous, 
and  was  so  early  as  1743  keenly  alive  to  the  disadvantages 
of  its  political  subordination  to  Newport.  The  election  of  a 
governor  from  Warwick,  William  Greene,  in  that  year,  was 
practically  the  first  departure^  since  1657  from  the  tradi- 
tional selection  of  a  resident  of  Newport  for  that  position. 
The  Greene  family  was,  however,  identified  with  Newport 
interests,  both  by  business  connections  and  by  intermarriage 
with  the  Wards,  prominent  merchants  of  the  colonial  me- 
tropolis. Richard  Ward  was  successively  secretary,  deputy- 
governor,  and  governor  of  Rhode  Island,  and  his  second  son, 
Samuel,  became  noted  as  a  skilful  leader  of  partisan  politics, 

1  Nicholas,  Joseph,  John,  and  Moses  Brown. 

2  Joseph  Jencks  was  the  one  exception,  and  it  will  be  remembered 
that  he  was  obliged  to  remove  himself  and  family  to  Newport. 


Introduction  xxxix 


and  the  rival  of  Stephen  Hopkins  in  the  unfortunate  feud 
which  was  so  long  the  chief  political  interest. 

This  episode  interests  us,  notwithstanding  the  belittling 
nature  of  its  personalities  and  its  tendency  to  obscure  all  the 
larger  public  issues,  because  it  shows  us  on  a  small  scale  the 
antagonism  in  opinion  and  interests  of  the  prosperous  and 
conservative  elements  of  a  community  when  arrayed  against 
those  of  the  poorer  and  comparatively  ignorant.  The  agri- 
culturist of  the  northern  counties  was,  for  instance,  ever 
loud  in  his  cry  for  paper  money,  while  the  Newport  mer- 
chants fought  the  mania  as  a  species  of  financial  suicide, 
even  going  to  the  length  of  petitioning  for  the  royal  prohibi- 
tion.^  With  the  merchants  of  Newport  were  arrayed  the 
planters  of  South  County.  This  was  the  party  of  possession, 
and  its  political  machine,  if  primitive,  was  well  adapted  to 
achieve  satisfactory  results.  Not  until  the  election  of  1755 
was  its  ascendency  effectively  disputed.  In  that  year 
Stephen  Hopkins  was  elected  governor  after  a  severe  strug- 
gle and  by  a  narrow  majority,  — the  first  successful  candi- 
date who  was  not  backed  by  the  mercantile  oligarchy  of 
Newport.  It  would  be  a  profitless  task  to  detail  the  progress 
of  this  struggle  between  the  Ward  and  Hopkins  factions 
during  the  next  thirteen  years.  Those  documents  illustrat- 
ing the  episode  which  occur  in  this  series  will  be  found  pro- 
vided with  sufficient  annotation  to  explain  their  bearing  on 
the  situation  in  general. 

Stephen  Hopkins  continued  his  useful  public  career  long 
after  the  conclusion  of  the  compromise  of  1768.  He  repre- 
sented Providence  in  the  General  Assembly  from  1770  to 
1775,  and  at  the  same  time  occupied  his  old  position  as 
chief  justice  of  the  Superior  Court.  All  his  energy  and 
ability  was  thrown  into  the  cause  of  the  colonies  during 
these  years  of  trial,  and  his  influence  extended  far  outside 
the  borders  of  Rhode  Island.     His  ready  and  forceful  pen 


See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  I.,Y,  311. 


xl  Introduction 


contributed  several  noteworthy  pamphlets  to  the  literature 
of  the  Revolution,  and  his  decisions  as  chief  justice  in  the 
Gaspee  cases  are  matters  of  common  knowledge.^  Under 
his  influence  slavery  was  forbidden  in  Rhode  Island.^  It  is 
probably  safe  to  say  that  no  public  improvement,  whether 
intellectual,  political,  or  purely  utilitarian,  took  place  within 
the  forty  years  between  1744  and  1784  which  was  not 
largely  helped  by  the  cordial  and  intelligent  cooperation  of 
Stephen  Hopkins,  and,  in  the  majority  of  instances,  due  to 
his  vigorous  personal  initiative. 

In  conclusion  the  editor  takes  pleasure  in  acknowledging 
the  courtesy  of  the  officials  of  the  department  of  the  Secre- 
tary of  State  for  Rhode  Island,  through  whose  kindness  the 
archives  were  made  accessible. 

A  personal  debt  of  thanks  for  kindly  assistance  and  crit- 
icism is  owing  Dr.  G.  P.  Winship  and  Dr.  William  MacDon- 
ald  of  Brown  University,  to  Mr.  William  B.  Weeden,  and 
especially  to  Dr.  J.  Franklin  Jameson  of  Chicago  University. 

The  thanks  of  the  public,  no  less  than  of  the  editor,  are 
due  to  the  Colonial  Dames  of  Rhode  Island,  whose  patriotism 
and  public  spirit  have  made  these  volumes  possible. 

GERTRUDE  SELWYN  KIMBALL. 


^  For  an  account  of  Hopkins's  life  and  services,  see  Mr.  Foster's  Life, 
in  Historical  Tracts  No.  ig,  2  vols. 
2  Col.  Rec.  ofR.  /.,  VI L  251-253. 


A  LIST  OF  THE  TERMS  OF  ADMINISTRATION  OF  THE 
GOVERNORS  REPRESENTED    IN  THIS  COLLECTION 


1698,  March. 
1727,  May. 
1732,  May. 
1734,  May. 
1740,  July  15. 
1743,  May. 

1745,  May. 

1746,  May. 

1747,  May. 

1748,  May. 
1755,  May. 

1757,  May. 

1758,  March  14. 

1762,  May. 

1763,  May. 
1765,  May. 

1767,  May. 

1768,  May. 

1769,  May. 


Samuel  Cranston 
Joseph  Jencks 
William  Wanton 
John  Wanton 
Richard  Ward 
William  Greene 
Gideon  Wanton 
William  Greene 
Gideon  Wanton 
William  Greene 
Stephen  Hopkins 
William  Greene 
Stephen  Hopkins 
Samuel  Ward 
Stephen  Hopkins 
Samuel  Ward 
Stephen  Hopkins 
Josias  Lyndon 
Joseph  Wanton 


to  April  26,  1727,  d 

"  May,  1732 

"  December,  1733,  d 

"  Julys,  1740,  d 

May,  1743 

May,  1745 

"  May,  1746 

May,  1747 

May,  1748 

May,  1755 

May,  1757 

"  February  22,  1758,  d 

"  May,  1762 

"  May,  1763 

May,  1765 

"  May,  1767 

"  May,  1768 

"  May,  1769 

"  November,  1775,  deposed. 


CONTENTS 


PAGE 


Governor   Cranston    to    Richard    Partridge,    November    26, 

1723 I 

The  General  Assembly  on  the  proposed   annexation  of  Rhode 
Island  to  New  Hampshire. 
Richard  Partridge  to  the  Lords  of  Trade,  February  10,  172I      13 
Transmitting  Governor  Cranston's  letter. 

Governor  Jencks  to  George  II 15 

Petition  for  cannon. 
Richard  Ward  to  the  Massachusetts  Assembly,  May  27,  1731   .      18 

Boundary  commissioners. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Jencks,  August  23,  1731      .    .      19 

The  Sugar  Bill  —  His  account. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Deputy-Governor  Wanton,  February, 

4.  i73i 20 

BUls  of  credit  —  The  Sugar  Bill. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Thomas  Sandford,  February  2,  1731     .      24 

Governor's  negative  vote. 
Richard    Partridge    to    Deputy-Governor    Wanton,   May  3, 

1732 25 

The  Sugar  Bill  —  Advance  in  salary. 
Joseph  Jencks  to  the  Governor,  Council,  and  House  of  Dep- 
uties, May  4,  1732 29 

Farewell  message. 
Richard    Partridge  to  Governor  William  Wanton,  July  io, 

1732      30 

Bills  of  credit  —  His  account. 
The  Commissioners  of  Customs  to  Governor  Wanton,  August 

12,  1732 32 

John  Peagrum's  credentials. 
Governor  Wanton  to   the   Speaker   and  Gentlemen  of  the 

Lower  House,  January  27,  173I 33 

Depreciated  paper  currency. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  February  28,  173I      34 
The  Sugar  Bill. 


xliv  Contents 

Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  March  3,  173I    .    .      35 

Asks  ;^ioo  a  year  for  seven  years. 
Governor  Belcher  to  Governor  Wanton,  April  30,  1733  ...      36 

Massachusetts  Boundary  Commission. 
Governor  Wanton  to  the  General  Assembly  [April  or  May, 
^IIZ^ 37 

Death  of  Abraham  Borden  —  Cannon  for  Fort  George  —  Simul- 
taneous election  of  Deputies. 
William  Jencks  to  Deputy-Governor  Wanton,  July  2,  1733     .     38 

Additional  boundary  commissioners. 
The  Commissioners  of  Customs  to  John  Peagrum,   September 
I.  1733       39 

Appointment  of  customs  officers. 
Charles  Carkesse  to  John  Peagrum,  October  4,  1733    ....      40 

Recommending  Mr.  Robert  Robinson. 
Governor  Wanton  to  Josiah  Willard,  October  26,  1733  ...      41 

Issue  of  ;^  100,000  in  bills  of  credit. 
John  Peagrum  to  Governor  Wanton,  January  7,  173I  ....      42 

Insisting  that  Mr.  Robinson  be  sworn. 
Instructions  to  John  Peagrum 44 

Enclosure  in  the  preceding. 
John  Peagrum  to  Governor  Wanton,  January  21,  173I     ...      46 

Error  in  former  letter. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  William  Wanton,  February 

4,  173I 46 

Twenty  Mediterranean  passes  —  Report  of  the  Lords  of  Trade  — 
Iron  furnaces. 
Governor  Belcher  to  the  Governor  of  Rhode  Island,  March 

5.  173I 48 

Outrage  on  Jonathan  Draper. 
Deposition  of  Jonathan  Draper 50 

Enclosure  in  the  preceding  —  Richard  Blood's  deposition. 
John  Peagrum  to  Governor  Wanton,  March  22,  173J    ....      53 

Urges  swearing  of  Mr.  Robinson. 
William  Jencks  to  Deputy-Governor  Wanton,  March  23,  173I      54 

The  Draper  outrage. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  April  30,  1734      .    .      55 

Laws,  manufactures,  and  trade  in  the  colonies. 
The  General  Court  of  Massachusetts  to  the  Governor  of 
Rhode  Island,  June  13,  1734 57 

Boundary  line  —  Draper  —  Henry  Josselyn  —  Jonathan  Jenkes. 


Contents  xlv 

Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  June  29, 1734      .    .      61 

Further  supply  of  money. 
The  Secretary  of  Rhode  Island  to  Richard  Partridge,  Sep- 
tember 6,  1734 63 

The  Report  on  Laws,  etc.,  in  the  colonies. 
The  Secretary  of  Rhode  Island  to  Richard  Partridge,  De- 
cember 20,  1734 65 

Appeal  relating  to  "  the  gore  "  —  Augmentation  of  salary  —  Colo- 
nel Lewis  Morris. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  January  29,  173I    .      67 
The  Report  on  Laws,  etc.,  in  the  colonies  —  Decision  on  ques- 
tion of  governor's  negative  vote  —  Rhode  Island  petition  referred  to 
Lords  of  Trade. 

Richard  Partridge  to  James  Martin,  April  10,  1735 69 

The  Massachusetts  boundary  —  The  petition  —  A  map  of  the  col- 
ony—  New  Jersey's  share  in  expense  of  opposing  the  Sugar  Bill. 
The   Lords   of    Trade   to   the    Governor    and    Company   of 

Rhode  Island,  June  17,  1735 72 

Request  for  list  of  duties  imposed  in  the  colony. 
The  Governor  and  Company  of  Rhode   Island  to   the  Lords 

of  Trade,  December  i,  1735 73 

Reply  to  the  preceding. 
Governor  Wanton  to  Richard  Partridge,  December  i,  1735     .      74 
Evidence   on  Massachusetts   boundary — Letter  to   Sir  Charles 
Wager  —  Salary. 
The  Governor  and  Company  of  Rhode  Island  to  Sir  Charles 

Wager,  October  i,  1735 76 

Begging  aid  in  securing  cannon. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  February  6,  173!    .      78 

Answer  of  Massachusetts  agent  concerning  the  boundary. 
Governor  Wanton  to  Richard  Partridge,  May  ii,  1736     ...    80 

Promising  further  evidence  on  the  boundary  question. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  December  31, 1736    .      80 
Commissioners  of  Massachusetts  and  New  Hampshire  boundary 
dispute. 

Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  May  5,  1737     ...      82 

Bill  encouraging  importation  of  pig  iron. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  October  18,  1737     .      84 

Enclosing  the  following. 
F.  J.  Paris  to  Richard  Partridge 85 

Dr.  McSparran's  affair. 


xlvi  Contents 

Richard  Partridge  TO  Governor  Wanton,  April  29,  1738    ...      86 

A  hearing  on  the  boundary  dispute  —  The  Iron  Bill  —  Jamaica 
merchants'  complaints  against  Spain  —  The  Sugar  Bill. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  May  20,  1738    ...      90 

Text  of  Iron  Bill. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  June  21,  1738     ...      94 

Copy  of  the  Massachusetts  agent's  boundary  petition. 
Richard  Partridge  TO  Governor  Wanton,  August  19,  1738     .    .      95 

Public  stir  about  war  with  Spain. 
John  Peagrum  to  Governor  Wanton,  August  25,  1738     ....      96 

Joseph  Wanton  made  Deputy-Collector. 
Governor  Belcher  to  Governor  Wanton,  September  ii,  1738    .      96 

Quieting  settlers  near  the  boundary  line. 
Richard  Partridge  TO  Governor  Wanton,  November  3,  1738  .    .      97 

The  Committee  of  Council's  decision  on  the  boundary. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  February  10,  173I      .    100 

Boundary  commissioners  —  The  Iron  Bill. 
The  Lords  of  Trade  to  the  Lords  of  the  Privy  Council,  De- 
cember 21,  1738 102 

Enclosed  in  the  preceding  —  Names  of  commissioners. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  February  12,  1738     .     103 

Order  of  King  in  Council  on  boundary  question. 
Richard  Partridge  TO  Governor  Wanton,  March  15,  1 73I      .    .    103 

Expense  of  Commission. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  April  10,  1739    .    .    .     105 

The  Iron  Bill. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  April  27,  1739    .    .    .    icb 

Solicitor  Paris's  bill. 
George  II.  to  the  Governor  and  Company  of  Rhode  Island       .     106 

Reprisals  upon  Spain. 
The  Duke  of  Newcastle  to  the  Governor  and  Company  of 
Rhode  Island,  June  15,  1739 109 

Enclosing  the  preceding. 
The  Lords  of  Trade  to  the  Governor  and  Company  of  Rhode 
Island,  July  5,  1739 iii 

Enclosing  the  next  two  documents. 
Address  of  the  House  of  Lords  to  the  Crown,  June  13,  1739  .    .     in 

Bills  of  credit. 
Address  of  the  House  OF  Lords  TO  the  Crown,  June  13,  1739  .    .     112 

Rates  of  gold  and  silver  in  1700,  17 10,  1720,  1730. 


Contents  xlvii 

Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  July  io,  1739      .    .    .    113 

War  with  Spain. 
JosiAH  Willard  to  MESSRS.  Peter  Bours,  Godfrey  Malbone,  and 
James  Martin,  July  16,  1739 115 

Massachusetts  vote  on  boundary  commissioners. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  August  id,  1739     .    .    115 

The  sugar  act  —  Bills  of  credit  —  The  war. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  September  5,  1739     .    117 

The  war —  Postscript  dated  the  nth. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  October  5,  1739      .    .    118 

Public  news. 
Circular  Letter  to  the  Governors  of  Maryland,  Connecticut, 
AND  Rhode  Island  [1739] 120 

Colonial  paper  currency. 
Richard  Partridge  TO  Governor  Wanton,  October  26,  1739    .    .    121 

War  against  Spain. 

The  Duke  of  Newcastle  to  the  Governor  and  Company  of 
Rhode  Island,  October  29,  1739 121 

Official  notice  of  the  war. 
Governor  Wanton  to  Governor  Belcher,  November  12,  1739      .    122 

Counterfeit  bills  —  The  additional  sugar  act. 
Governor  Wanton  to  Richard  Partridge,  November  12,  1739    .    123 

The  sugar  act  —  Bills  of  credit. 
Governor  Wanton  to  Joseph  Talcott,  November  12,  1739  .    .    .    124 

Mason's  affair  —  The  sugar  act. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  January  2,  i7ff     .    .    125 

Boundary  Commission  —  Sugar  act  —  Bills  of  credit. 

The  Duke  of  Newcastle  to  the  Governor  and  Company  of 
Rhode  Island,  January  5,  i7|f 127 

Colonial  troops  for  the  war. 
The  Governor  and  Company  of  Rhode  Island  to  the  Lords 
Committee  of  the  Privy  Council  [January  19,  i7ff !"]....    131 

Petition  for  settlement  of  Massachusetts  boundary. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  March  20,  i7f§  .    .    .    138 

The  boundary. 
Alexander  Spotswood  TO  Governor  Wanton,  April  3, 1740     .    .    140 

Troops  for  the  war. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  April  4,  1740     ...    142 

Colonial  paper  currency. 


xlviii  Contents 

The  Duke  of  Newcastle  to  the  Governor  and  Company  of 
Rhode  Island,  April  5,  1740 143 

Enclosing  the  following. 
George  II.  to  the  Governor  and  Company  of  Rhode  Island  .    .    146 

Instructions  for  raising  troops. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  April  12,  1740   .    .    .    147 

Paper  currency. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  April  17,  1740   ...    148 

Bills  of  credit. 
The  Duke  of  Newcastle  to  the  Governor  and  Company  of 
Rhode  Island,  April  18,  1740 149 

Encouragement  of  trade  and  privateers. 
General  Spotswood  to  Governor  Wanton,  April  26,  1740  ...    150 

Pay  for  troops. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  May  2,  1740    ....    152 

Colonial  currency. 
Richard  Partridge  TO  Messrs.  Sandys  and  Campbell      ....    155 

Against  the  resolution  concerning  paper  currency. 
The  Lords  of  Admiralty  to  the  Governor  and  Company  of 
Rhode  Island,  May  20,  1740 159 

Letters  of  marque. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  June  19,  1740     ...    161 

Bills  of  credit  —  Boundary  Commission  —  Postscript  dated  July  5. 
Governor  Belcher  to  Governor  Wanton,  June  30,  1740      .    .    .    163 

Ship  from  the  Canaries. 
^           Colonel  William  Blakeney  to  the  Governor  and  Company  of 
\  Rhode  Island,  July  7,  1740  . 164 

Payment  of  troops. 
Colonel  William  Gooch  to  Governor  Wanton,  July  8,  1740  .    .    165 
^  Supplies  for  troops. 

Governor  Richard  Ward  to  Colonel  Gooch 167 

Two  companies  equipped. 
Governor  Ward  to  Colonel  Blakeney,  July  17,  1740 168  * 

Number  of  men  enlisted. 
JosiAH  Willard  to  Governor  Ward,  July  17,  1740 169 

Private  notes  of  hand. 
Andrew  Stone  to  the  Governor  and  Company  of  Rhode  Is- 
land, July  20,  1740 170 

Distribution  of  prizes  of  war. 
Lieutenant-Governor  Clarke  to  Governor  Ward,  July  21,  1740    171 

Rendezvous  of  troops. 


Contents  xlix 

Colonel  Blakeney  to  the  Governor  and  Company  of  Rhode 
Island,  July  21,  1740 171 

Pay  for  levies. 
Governor  Ward  to  Colonel  Gooch,  July  24,  1740 174 

Number  of  troops  raised. 
Colonel  Blakeney  to  Governor  Ward,  August  18,  1740  ...    175 

Transports. 
John  Couraud  to  the  Governor  and  Company  of  Rhode  Is- 
land, August  22, 1740 176 

Enclosing  the  following. 
The  Lords  Justices  to  the  Governor  and  Company  of  Rhode 
Island,  August  21,  1740 176 

Rates  of  foreign  coins. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  August  25,  1740 .    .    178 

Royal  Commission  for  fixing  the  boundary — Postscript  to  De- 
puty-Governor Ward. 
Colonel  Blakeney  to  Governor  Ward,  August  25,  1740  .    .    .    180 

Movement  of  troops. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Ward,  September  17,   1740 .    180 

The  Royal  Commission  —  Paper  money. 
Governor  Ward  to  the  Duke  of  Newcastle  [Autumn  of  1740]     183 

Troops. 
Andrew  Stone  to  the  Governor  and  Company  of   Rhode  Is- 
land, October  2,  1740 184 

Exportation  of  provisions. 
Admiral  Vernon  to  Governor  Ward,  November  13,  1740     .    .     185 

Provisions  for  Spanish  fleet. 
Governor  Ward  to  Richard  Partridge,  November  20,  1740     .    186 

Value  of  coins. 
The  Duke  of  Newcastle  to  the  Governor  and  Company  of 
Rhode  Island,  December  4,  1740 187 

More  troops. 
Governor  Ward  to  Richard  Partridge,  February  26,  174^  .    .    189 

His  account  —  Paper  currency. 

The   Lords   of    Trade    to   the    Governor  and    Company    of 

Rhode  Island,  April  17,  1741 190 

Acts  prohibiting  exportation  of  corn,  etc.,  and  licensing  importa- 
tion of  victual  from  Ireland. 

E.  Warner,  R.  Gibbs,  and  J.  Bowen  to  Governor  Ward,  May 
15.  1741 191 

Thornton's  refusal  to  surrender  seal. 


1  Contents 

Daniel  Jencks,   Stephen   Hopkins,  and  others  to  Governor 
Ward,  May  i6,  1741 192 

More  of  the  preceding. 
Governor  Ward  to  the  Sheriff  of  Providence  County,  May 
22,  1741 194 

Warrant  for  Thornton. 
The  House  of  Magistrates  to  the  House  of  Deputies,  Octo- 
ber 29,  1741      196 

Thornton  a  deputy  —  Postscript  to  the  House  of  Magistrates. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Ward,  May  15,  1741    ....    197 

Paper  currency  —  His  account. 
Governor  Ward  to  the  Duke  of  Newcastle,  June  24,  1741     .    199 

Troops  and  officers. 
Governor  Ward  to  Richard  Partridge,  July  15,  1741  ....    200 

His  salary  —  Boundary  settled. 
General  Wentworth  to  Governor  Ward,  August  12,  1741  .    .    202 

Further  levies. 
General  Wentworth's  Orders  to  Captains  Hopkins  and  Wins- 
low,  August  12,  1741 203 

Recruiting. 
Governor  Ward  to  General  Wentworth 205 

Additional  recruits. 
Daniel  Updike  to  the  General  Assembly,  October  8,  1741       .    206 

Bill  for  services  before  Boundary  Commission. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Ward,  October  16,  1741    .    .    207 

Paper  money. 
General  Wentworth  to  Governor  Ward,  February  2, 174^    .    209 

Recruiting  officers. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Ward,  February  4,  1741    .    .    210 

Affairs  in  Parliament. 
Governor  Ward   to  the  Duke  of  Newcastle,    February  10, 
i74i 212 

Recruits. 

Governor  Ward  to  Richard  Partridge,  April  21,  1742    .    .    .    214 

Eastern  boundary. 
Governor  Ward  to  Richard  Partridge,  April  26,  1742      .    .    .    215 

Introducing  Dr.  Teddeman  Hull. 

The  Commissioners   of  Customs  to   the  Governor  and  Com- 
pany of  Rhode  Island,  May  16,  1742 216 

Thomas  Lechmere's  credentials 


Contents  li 

Governor  Ward  to  the  House  of  Deputies,  June  23, 1742    .    .    217 

Salary, 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Ward,  July  14,  1742  ....    218 

Boundary. 
General  Wentworth  to  Captain  Hopkins,  October  8,  1742      .    220 

End  of  expedition. 
General  Wentworth  to  Governor  Ward,  October  15,  1742    .    220 

Return  of  troops. 
Governor  William  Shirley  to  Governor  Ward,  November  8, 
1742 222 

Spanish  prisoners. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Ward,  February  21,  174I  .    .    223 

Boundary. 
The  Duke  of  Newcastle  to  the  Governor  and  Company  of 
Rhode  Island,  April  13,  1743 225 

Dutch  ships. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Ward,  May  28,  1743  ....    226 

Leonard  Lockman. 
Richard  Partridge  to  the  Lords  Justices 228 

Appointment  of  naval  officers. 
Andrew  Stone  to  the  Governor  of  Rhode  Island,  July   14, 
1743       230 

The  Gertrude. 
Translation    of  the   Dutch    Complaint  against  Privateers, 
July  30,  1743 • .    231 

Enclosed  in  above. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Greene,  July  28,  1743    .    .    .    233 

Lockman  —  The  boundary. 
Thomas  Corbett  to  the  Governors    in    America,  August  19, 
1743 235 

Northey,  Ryder,  and  Strange  on  pressing  of  sailors  in  America. 
Andrew  Stone  to  the  Governor  of  Rhode  Island,  October 
I.  1743 237 

Impressment  of  sailors. 
The  Lords  of  the  Admiralty  to  the  Lords  Justices,  Septem- 
ber 26,  1743 238 

Opposition  to  impressment. 
The  Lords  of  Admiralty  to  the  Captains 241 

Press  warrants. 
Governor  Greene  to  Richard  Partridge,  October  29,  1743      .    242 

Leonard  Lockman. 


Hi  Contents 

Will  Strahan  to  Thomas  Corbett,  February  i,  174I    ....    243 

Lockman's  complaint. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Greene,  February  23,  174!    .    245 
Refusal  to  admit  Lockman  —  Postscripts  dated  February  28  and 
March  9  on  the  naval  victory  at  Toulon. 
Governor  Greene  to  the  Duke  of  Newcastle,  March  15,  174I    250 

La  Gertruyda. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Greene,  March  29,  1744    .    .    252 

Declaration  of  war  with  France  —  Boundary  dispute  —  Lockman. 
The  Duke  of  Newcastle  to  the  Governor  and  Company  of 

Rhode  Island,  April  26,  1744 253 

Spanish  prizes. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Greene,  May  8,  1744      .    .    .    254 
Bill  for  suppressing  paper  currency  —  Boundary  —  Lockman  — 
Auchmuty's  scheme  for  an  expedition  against  Cape  Breton  —  Post- 
script dated  the  nth  in  regard  to  book  by  Dummer  in  defence  of 
charter  governments. 
The  Commissioners  for  distributing  Prizes  to  the  Governor 

AND  Company  of  Rhode  Island,  May  18,  1744 256 

Distribution  of  the  moiety  of  the  Spanish  prizes. 
Governor  Clinton  to  Governor  Greene,  May  28,  1744      .    .    .    258 

Declaration  of  war  with  France. 
Secretary  Willard  to  Governor  Greene,  June  5,  1744    ....    259 
Asking  the  appointment  of  commissioners  to  meet  at  Albany  with 
those  from  other  colonies  and  with  the  Six  Nations. 

Governor  Greene  to  Governor  Law,  June  7,  1744 261 

In  regard  to  the  patrolling  of  the  coast  by  the  colony  sloops  of 
Rhode  Island  and  Connecticut. 
Governor  Greene  to  Governor  Shirley,  June  8,  1744      ....    262 
In  regard  to  the  appointment  of  commissioners  to  the  Albany  con- 
ference. 
Governor  Shirley  TO  Governor  Greene,  June  16,  1744     ....    263 

The  reinforcement  of  the  garrison  at  Annapolis  Royal. 
Vote  of  the  General  Court  of  Massachusetts,  June  12,  1744  .    .    263 
Providing  for  two  companies  of  volunteers  to  be  sent  to  Annapolis 
Royal. 
Major  Mascarene  to  Governor  Shirley,  May  21,  1744      ....     265 
Asking  for  assistance  for  Annapolis  Royal. 

Governor  Law  to  Governor  Greene,  June  19,  1744 267 

The  patrolling  of  the  coast  —  The  congress  at  Albany. 

Governor  Greene  to  Governor  Law,  June  23,  1744 267 

The  patrolling  of  the  coast. 


Contents  liii 

Governor  Law  to  Governor  Greene,  June  29,  1744 268 

The  patrolling  of  the  coast  —  The  congress  at  Albany. 

JOSIAH  WILLARD  to  GOVERNOR  GrEENE,  SEPTEMBER  I,  I744       .      .      .      269 

Discovery  of  counterfeit  Rhode  Island  bills. 
Governor  Shirley  to  Governor  Greene,  September  19,  1744  .    .    271 
English  prisoners  from  Louisbourg  —  Advices  in  regard  to  the  ap- 
pearance of  French  privateers. 
Governor  Greene  to  Governor  Law,  September  21, 1744  ....  272 
Advising  the  Connecticut  governor  of  the  returned  prisoners  and 
the  French  privateers  —  The  patrolling  of  the  coast  to  be  continued. 
Governor  Law  to  Governor  Greene,  September  23,  1744    .    .    .    274 

The  cruising  sloops. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Greene,  October  12,  1744     .    .    274 
The  boundary  cause  —  The  writer's  accounts  —  The  ordnance  — 
European  news  —  Losses  of  the  English  and  the  French  by   priva- 
teering—  Postscript  dated  the  31st  relates  to  the  boundary  dispute 
and  further  public  news  —  A  second  postscript,  dated  November  13, 
relates  to  a  document  transmitted  and  to  the  boundary  hearings. 
Report  of  the  Office  of  Ordnance  to  His  Grace  the  Duke  of 

Montagu,  October  23,  1744 279 

On  guns  and  stores  needed  for  the  Rhode  Island  fort. 
The  Duke  of  Montagu  to  the  Lord  President  of  the  Coun- 
cil, November  6,  1744 282 

Relating  to  the  ordnance  for  Rhode  Island. 
Josiah  Willard  to  Governor  Greene,  October  18,  1744  ....    283 

In  regard  to  the  apprehension  of  certain  rioters. 
The  General  Assembly  to  Richard  Partridge,  November  3, 1744    284 

The  currency  bill  —  The  boundary. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Greene,  November  3,  1744   .    .    288 

The  boundary  hearing. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Greene,  December  ii,  1744  .    .    289 

Settlement  of  the  boundary  dispute  —  The  currency  bill. 
The  General  Assembly  to  Richard  Partridge,  December  12,  1744    290 
Remitting  money  for  expenses  —  The  ordnance  —  The  currency 
bill. 

Richard  Partridge  to  Deputy-Governor  Whipple,  December  15, 

1744 291 

Settlement  of  the  boundary  dispute  —  The  paper  currency  —  Re- 
muneration for  the  agent's  services  —  Miscellaneous  news. 

Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Greene,  December  27,  1744  .    .    295 
The  currency  bill  —  The  boundary  settlement. 


liv  Contents 

The  General  Assembly  to  Richard  Partridge,  December  29, 1744    297 

The  currency  bill  —  Remittance. 
Governor  Shirley  to  Governor  Greene,  January  29,  174^  ...    298 
Asking  cooperation  in  the  expedition  against  Louisbourg  —  Mem- 
orandum for  an  attack  upon  Louisbourg. 
Governor  Shirley  to  Governor  Greene,  January  29,  174^  .    .    .    303 
The  Louisbourg  expedition  —  Report  of  committee  of  Massachu- 
setts legislature  on  Louisbourg. 
Governor  Greene  to  the  House  of  Deputies,  February  5,  174I  .    306 

Referring  the  matter  of  the  expedition  against  Louisbourg. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Greene,  February  6,  174I    .    .    308 
The  ordnance.  —  Postscript  dated  February  8  gives  news  of  a 
petition  from  Massachusetts  for  a  reopening  of  the  boundary  matter 
—  Postscript  dated   March  25  relates  to  the  renewed  boundary  dis- 
pute, the  currency  bill,  war  matters,  the  Lockman  case,  and  the  ord- 
nance —  Postscript   dated   March  27   refers  to  the   Massachusetts 
petition. 
Governor  Greene  to  Governor  Shirley,  February  8,  174I      .    .    312 

Announcing  the  legislature's  action  as  to  the  Louisbourg  expedition. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Greene,  February  9,  174^     .    .    313 
Enclosing  a  form  of  petition  for  ordnance. 

Form  of  A  Petition  to  the  Lords  OF  Trade 314 

The  form  of  petition  for  ordnance,  with  the  order  of  the   Privy 
Council  Committee  asking  for  plan  of  fort. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Greene,  February  14,  174^  .    .    316 
The  boundary  matter  —  The  ordnance  —  A  postscript  dated  the 
1 6th  treats  of  the  boundary  matter  and  of  the  death  of  the  Emperor 
of  Germany. 

Petition   of  Richard  Partridge  to  the  Lords  of  the  Privy 
Council 317 

The  boundary  affair. 
Governor  Shirley  to  Governor  Greene,  March  4,  174^  ....    320 

In  regard  to  the  Cape  Breton  expedition. 
Daniel  Coggeshall  to  Josiah  Willard,  March  7,  174^    ....    323 

The  rioters. 
Governor  Greene  to  Governor  Law,  March  II,  174^ 324 

Asking  that  the  Rhode  Island  land  forces  in  the  Louisbourg  expe- 
dition be  allowed  to  serve  under  the  Connecticut  officers. 

Josiah  Willard  to  Governor  Greene,  March  27,  1745 325 

Remonstrating  against  Rhode  Island's   action   in  regard  to  the 
rioters. 


Contents  Iv 

Governor  Law  to  Governor  Greene,  April  i,  1745 326 

The  Louisbourg  expedition. 
Roger  Wolcott  to  Governor  Greene,  April  i,  1745 328 

The  Louisbourg  expedition. 
Captain  Daniel  Fones  to  Governor  Greene,  April  26,  1745    .    .    329 

From  Canso  Harbor,  reporting  an  encounter  with  a  French  man- 
of-war. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Greene,  May  15,  1745    ....    330 

Referring  to  the  boundary  matter  and  begging  for  a  remittance 

—  Prorogation   of    Parliament  —  The    currency  —  European    news 

—  Misconduct  of  naval   officers  in  engagement   with  French  and 
Spanish  fleets. 

Governor  Shirley  to  Governor  Wanton,  May  18,  1745   ....    333 
Asking  assistance  in  the  raising  of  troops  to  support  the  expedition 
to  Louisbourg. 

General  William  Pepperell  to  Governor  Shirley 335 

Copy  enclosed  in  Shirley's  letter  —  An  account  of  the  progress 
of  the  siege  of  Louisbourg  up  to  May  12. 

Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  June  13,  1745  ....    342 
To  the  new  governor,  announcing  his  readiness  to  serve  the  col- 
ony —  A  postscript  dated  July  2  relates  to  the  boundary  cause,  the 
Lockman  matter,  the  ordnance,  the  currency  bill,  his  need  of  a  re- 
mittance, and  general  European  news. 
Governor  Shirley  to  Governor  Wanton,  June  16,  1745  ....    346 
Giving  news  of  the  Louisbourg  expedition  and  asking  for  more 
troops  and  seamen. 
Governor  Shirley  to  Governor  Wanton,  June  20,  1745  ....    348 
Enclosing  a  certificate  in  regard  to  the  payment  of  Rhode  Island 
seamen. 

Captain  Fones  to  Governor  Wanton,  June  26,  1745 349 

Regarding  the  interception  of  French  and  Indian  reinforcements 

for  Louisbourg. 

Governor  Wanton  to  Richard  Partridge,  July  4,  1745  ....    350 

The    boundary    cause  —  Remittances  —  The      ordnance  —  The 

Louisbourg  expedition.  —  The  superscription  of  letters. 

Governor  Shirley  to  the  Penobscot  Indians,  July  12,  1745     .    .    352 

Warning  the  Indians  against  the  French. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  July  18,  1745  ....    353 
The  remittance  —  Dissatisfaction  with  Rhode  Island's  reported  atti- 
tude towards  the  Louisbourg  expedition  —  European  news. 

Captain  Fones  to  Governor  Wanton,  July  23,  1745 355 

jing  for  provisions. 


Ivi  Contents 

Captain  Fones  to  Governor  Wanton,  July  26,  1745 356 

Notifying  the  governor  of  being  ordered  to  Prince  Edward  Island. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  July  23,  1745      .    .    .    357 
The  boundary  cause  —  The  Rhode  Island  attitude   toward    the 
Cape  Breton  expedition  —  Reports  against  the  writer's  fidelity  — 
News  of  Louisbourg's  surrender  received  in  England. 
Richard  Partridge  to  William  Sharpe,  July  22,  1745      ....    359 
Enclosed  in  letter  to  Governor  Wanton  —  The  boundary  cause 
and  the  Rhode  Island  attitude  toward  the  Louisbourg  expedition. 
Captain  Mumford  and  others  to  Governor  Wanton,  July  24, 

1745 361 

Asking  for  provisions  and  pay  for  Rhode  Island  troops  at  Louis- 
bourg and  giving  news  of  the  capture  of  a  French  ship. 
Commodore  Warren  to  Governor  Wanton,  July  25,  1745    .    .    .    362 
Giving  advices  of  the  capture  of  the  French  East  Indiaman  and 
enclosing  an  advertisement  of  the  sale  of  her  cargo. 
Governor  Wanton  to  Richard  Partridge,  July  26,  1745  .    .    .    .    363 

A  defence  of  Rhode  Island's  conduct  in  the  Louisbourg  matter. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  August  8,  1745  .    .    .    370 
The  surrender  of  Louisbourg,  and  Rhode  Island's  attitude  —  Re- 
ward for  the  apprehension  of  the  Young  Pretender  —  Progress  of 
the  war  with  France  —  Cape  Breton  news. 

Richard  Partridge  to  Thomas  Ramsden,  July  30,  1745      ....    372 
Enclosed  in  the  last  —  Defending  the  colony  against  aspersions 
of  backwardness  in  the  Louisbourg  expedition. 

Lieutenant-Governor  Phips  to  Governor  Wanton,  August  19, 

I74S 374 

Asking  the  assistance  of  Rhode  Island  against  the  Indians. 

Governor  Shirley  to  Captain  Bradbury,  July  22,  1745    ....    376 
Enclosed  in  Phips's  letter  —  In  regard  to  the  participation  of  Pe- 
nobscot Indians  in  an  attack  on  the  fort  on  St.  George's  River. 

Captain  Bradbury  to  Governor  Shirley,  July  29,  1745    ....    377 

Enclosed  in  Phips's  letter  —  The  trouble  with  the  Penobscots. 
Captain  FoNES  to  Governor  Wanton,  August  20,  1745      ....    378 

Asking  for  orders  to  return  home  on  account  of  sickness  and  lack 
of  provisions  and  clothing. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  August  22,  1745     .    .    379 

Rhode  Island  and  the  Louisbourg  expedition  —  Extract  from  the 
Boston  Evening  Post  relating  thereto. 
Captain  Fones  to  Governor  Wanton,  August  23,  1745      ....    3S1 

Ordered  to  Newfoundland  —  The  sick  —  Provisions. 


Contents  Ivii 

Governor  Law  to  Governor  Wanton,  August,  1745 381 

Asking  Rhode  Island  to  join  Connecticut  in  raising  a  regiment  for 
the   Louisbourg    garrison  —  The  counterfeiters  —  A  personal  case 
of  Governor  Law's  in  the  Rhode  Island  courts. 
Lieutenant-Governor  Phips  to  Governor  Wanton,  September 

2,  1745 383 

Transmitting  copies  of  a  declaration  of  war  against  the  Indians 
and  a  proclamation  for  the  encouragement  of  volunteers,  and  urging 
action  on  Rhode  Island's  part. 
Sir  William  Pepperell  to  Governor  Wanton,   September  20, 

1745 384 

Asking  for  troops  to  fill  the  quota  of  the  Rhode  Island  companies 
at  Louisbourg. 
Lieutenant-Governor  Phips  to  Governor  Wanton,  September 

23.  1745      38s 

The   Louisbourg  recruits.  —  Enclosing  copy  of  letter  from  Gov- 
ernor Shirley  at  Louisbourg. 
Governor  Shirley  to  Governor  Phips,  September  6,  1745    .    .    385 
Enclosed  in  Phips's  letter  —  Report  of  a  French  fleet  near  Louis- 
bourg —  Urgent  need  of  more  troops. 
Admiral  Sir  Peter  Warren  to  Governor  Wanton,  October  23, 

1745 387 

Asking  for  reinforcements  for  Louisbourg. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  October  30,  1745    .    .    389 
Receipt  of  remittance  —  Captain  Hopkins  —  The  boundary  affair  — 
The  rebellion  in  Scotland  —  The  currency  bill  —  A  postscript  dated 
November  14  relates  to  the  affair  of  Captain  William  Hopkins. 
Petition  of  Richard  Partridge  to  George    IL,    October  28, 

1745       392 

Enclosed  with  the  last  —  On  the  boundary  matter. 
Lieutenant-Governor  Phips  to  Governor  Wanton,  December 

2,  1745 395 

In  regard  to  a  frontier  war  against  the  French  and  the  Indians. 

Letter  of  Governor  Clinton,  November  25,  1745 398 

Enclosed  with  Phips's  letter  —  Giving  advices  of  the  capture  of 
Saratoga  by  French  and  Indians. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  December  25,  1745  .  399 
The  rebellion  under  the  Young  Pretender  —  Expected  invasion 
by  the  French  —  Miscellaneous  public  news  —  An  extract  from  a 
newspaper  on  the  effects  of  the  war  on  French  and  English  trade 
respectively  —  Postscript  of  January  8  relates  to  the  writer's  accounts, 
the  boundary  cause,  the  rebellion,  and  the  French  war. 


Iviii  Contents 

Governor  Clinton  to  Governor  Wanton,  January  27,  174I    .    .    404 
Asking  Rhode  Island  to  appoint  commissioners  to  meet  with  those 
from  other  colonies  to  concert  measures  for  mutual  security  against 
the  French  and  the  Indians —  News  of  the  war. 
Governor  Wanton  to  Governor  Clinton,  February  15,  174!  .    .    406 
In  reply  to  the  last. 

Governor  Law  to  Governor  Wanton,  March  3,  174^ 408 

Asking  that  the  Rhode  Island  sloop  cruise  in  consort  with  the  Con- 
necticut sloop  for  the  defence  of  the  coast. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Wanton,  March  10,  174I  .    .    .    408 
The  boundary  cause  —  The  rebellion  in  the  Highlands  —  Post- 
script of  April  7  relates  to  Rhode  Island's  part  in  the  Louisbourg 
expedition  and  the  reimbursement  for  her  expenses  therein,  and  to 
the  boundary  affair  —  Postscript  of  April  16  relates  to  the  same,  and 
to  the  rebellion  in  the  Highlands. 
Petition  of  Richard  Partridge  to  the  Crown,  April  15,  1746     .    412 
Enclosed  in  the  last  —  Asking   for  reimbursement  of  Rhode  Is- 
land's expense  in  the  Louisbourg  expedition. 
Governor  Clinton  to  Governor  Wanton,  March  31,  1746  .    .    .    416 
Renewing  request  for  the  appointment  of  commissioners  to  provide 
for  the  public  defence,  and  pointing  out  the  necessity  of  keeping  the 
Six  Nations  well  affected  towards  the  colonies. 
Governor  Shirley  to  Governor  Greene,  May  12,  1746     ....    417 

Seconding  Governor  Clinton's  proposals. 
Governor  Clinton  to  Governor  Greene,  May  26,  1746     ....    419 

In  regard  to  the  convention. 
Governor  Shirley  to  Governor  Greene,  May  29, 1746     ....    420 
Transmitting  the  King's  orders  for  raising  troops  for  an  invasion 
of  Canada. 

Governor  Shirley  TO  Governor  Greene,  May  30,  1746     ....    421 

Regarding  the  intended  expedition  against  Canada. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Greene,  May  31,  1746    ....    422 
Announcing  the  favorable  settlement  of  the  boundary  dispute  and 
recommending  a  survey  to  run  the  line ;  also  suggesting  gratuities 
for  himself  and  Solicitor  Paris. 

Governor  Shirley  to  Governor  Greene,  June  2,  1746 424 

Enclosing  a  copy  of  a  proclamation  for  raising  volunteers  for  the 
Canada  expedition  and  urging  action  on  the  part  of  Rhode  Island 
—  A  postscript  dated  June  8  gives  news  from  New  Hampshire  and 
Connecticut  in  regard  to  the  expedition. 
Governor  Greene  to  the  Governor  of  Havana,  June  14,  1746  .  425 
Regarding  the  release  of  certain  Spanish  subjects  captured  by  a 
privateer  and  held  as  slaves. 


Contents  lix 

Governor  Greene  to  Governor  Clinton 427 

Recommending  the  return  of  Spanish  subjects  held  as  slaves  in 
New  York. 

Governor  Greene  to  Governor  Thomas 427 

To  the  governor  of  Pennsylvania  in  regard  to  the  Spanish  negroes, 
asking  his  good  offices  in  obtaining  the  return  of  Rhode  Island  men 
held  by  the  Spanish. 
Governor  Shirley  and  Admiral  Warren  to  Governor  Greene, 

July  7,  1746 428 

In  regard  to  supplies  for  the  proposed  expedition  to  Canada  and 
an  embargo  to  preserve  seamen  for  the  service  of  the  Crown. 

Admiral  Warren  to  Governor  Greene,  July  16,  1746 429 

The  Canada  expedition  —  The  volunteers  of  the  Vigilant. 
Richard  Partridge  to  Governor  Greene,  July  26,  1746  ....    432 
The  boundary  —  The  colony's  expenses  in  the  Louisbourg  expe- 
dition —  Remittances   desired  —  The     ordnance  —  The   war    with 
France   and  Spain  —  The  end  of  the  rebellion  —  Appointment  of 
Belcher  as  governor  of  New  Jersey. 
William  Sharpe  to  Richard  Partridge,  June  17,  1746     ....    434 
Enclosed  with  the  last  —  The  Rhode  Island  demand  for  reim- 
bursement of  expense  in  the  Louisbourg  expedition. 


LIST  OF  ILLUSTRATIONS 

PAGE 

Cranston  Coat  of  Arms Frontispiece 

The  Governor  Joseph  Jencks  House,  Pawtucket i6 

From  a  painting. 

William  Wanton 52 

From  a  painting  in  the  State  House,  Providence. 

John  Wanton 162 

From  a  painting  in  the  State  House,  Providence. 

Richard  Ward 228 

From  a  painting  in  the  State  House,  Providence. 


CORRESPONDENCE   OF   THE   COLONIAL 
GOVERNORS  OF  RHODE  ISLAND 


GOVERNOR   CRANSTON   TO    RICHARD    PARTRIDGE.^ 

Worthy  and  Esteemed  frind. 

I  have  communicated  your  Letter,  w'^  the  propo- 
sitions and  advice  of  the  Right  Hon^J*  the  Lords 
Commissioners  for  Trade  and  Plantations  &c^  to  the 
General  Assembly  of  this  His  Maj*^^  Colony  sitting 
in  Newport  the  26'^  of  November  1723,  who  re- 
quested mee  in  their  name,^  to  returne  the  following 
memorial  and  answer  to  their  Lordships. 

Viz*  —  with  all  due  and  humble  submission  they 
pray  their  Lordships  will  be  pleased  to  consider  that 
their  Predicessors  with  great  Perrill  and  charge  Trans- 
ported themselves  and  Families  from  their  Native 
Country  of  Great  Brittain,  to  this  then  a  wild  and 
howling  Wilderness  (as  great  part  is  to  this  day)  in- 
habited by  Salvage  and  Barbarous  People,  and  Beasts 
of  Prey,  wee  shall  not  instance  or  insist  upon  the  per- 


1  Copied  from  the  transcript  in  the  John  Carter  Brown  Library,  P.  R.  O.  Proprie- 
ties B.  T.,  Vol.  XI.  R.  46.  Samuel  Cranston  was,  by  successive  reelections,  governor 
of  Rhode  Island  from  1698  to  1727.     See  p.  xxii  of  the  Introduction. 

2  The  Assembly  voted,  on  November  26,  1 723,  "  Whereas,  our  Agent,  by  order  of 
the  lords  commissioners,  &c.,  has  written  to  this  government,  for  answer  whether  we 
will  surrender  our  charter  to  the  King ;  — 

"  Which  being  duly  considered,  it  is  voted  by  this  Assembly,  that  the  answer  drawn 
by  the  Governor,  be  sent  home."    Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  IV.  333. 


Corresp07idence  of  the 


ticulars  of  the  great  sufferings,  and  cruell  hardships 
they  suffered  and  encountered  with  after  their  arrival 
in  the  Massachusets  Bay,  before  they  were  compelled 
to  seek  for  shelter  and  relief  among  the  great  body 
of  Salvage  Natives  within  the  precincts  and  confines 
of  this  Colony  who  (by  the  Christian  deportm*  and 
wining  behaviour  of  our  said  Predecessors)  was  by 
the  Divine  Providence  of  God  become  Gentle  and 
Compassionate,  considered  their  distressed  condition 
and  granted  them  liberty  to  erect  Hutts  and  digg 
Cellers  among  them  to  skreen  and  shelter  them  from 
the  Extremity  of  the  Weather,  and  by  their  Christian 
demeanour  and  conversation  as  afores^  the  Natives 
in  a  Little  time  became  more  familiar,  and  sold  them 
considerable  Tracts  of  Land  as  the  Township  of 
Providence,  Pautuxet,  Warwick,  and  Misquamacut 
alias  Westerl3%  so  that  as  their  number  increased 
they  associated  together,  purchased  Rhode  Island 
and  the  rest  of  the  Lslands  in  the  Narraganset  Bay 
it  will  exceed  our  present  purpose  to  innumerate 
or  particularise  the  unnaccountable  hardship,  labour 
and  discouragement  they  mett  with  from  the  neigh- 
bouring Governments,  and  before  they  could  subdue 
and  cultivate  a  little  Land  to  raise  some  corne  and 
keep  a  little  Stock  of  Creatures  to  subsist  themselves 
and  families,  but  through  their  great  Labour  indus- 
try and  paines,  with  the  Blessing  of  God  they  made 
such  improvement  in  a  few  years,  as  incouraged 
them  to  Petition  his  Royall  Majesty  King  Charles 
the  first  for  a  Charter  of  Incorporation,  which  they 
obtained  from  the  Earl  of  Warwick  &c^  with  meets, 
butts,  and  Bounds,  the  King  then  being  Imbroiled 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island  3 

in  the  Civill  Warrs  by  his  Rebellious  subjects,  the 
original  Charter  then  Granted  you  have  with  you.^ 

Upon  the  Restoration  of  King  Charles  the  Second 
of  Glorious  memory  they  addressed  his  sf  Majesty 
for  a  Confirmation  of  their  aforesaid  Charter,  the 
which  his  said  Majesty  was  Graciously  pleased,  to 
promise  should  be  granted  and  confirmed  to  the 
extent  thereof  according  to  the  Bounds,  att  the  same 
time  Mr  Winthrop  Agent  for  Connecticot,  addressed 
'his  said  Majesty  for  a  Charter  of  Incorporation  for 
that  Government,  and  it  was  agreed  upon  by  the 
Two  Agents  viz*  Mr  Winthrop  and  M-  John  Clark 
to  take  out  their  Charters  att  one  and  the  same  time, 
so  as  they  might  not  Intrench  upon  each  others 
property  and  Jurisdiction  but  contrary  to  this  agree- 
ment, Mr  Winthrop  (unknown  to  M'  Clark)  Privately 
by  false  insinuations  to  the  Lord  Chancellor  Hide 
getts  out  Connecticot  Charter  upon  his  own  termes, 
designing  thereby  to  Eclips  this  Colony  of  all  the 
Lands  on  the  Main  Land  that  was  Included  within 
our  former  Charter.  The  greatest  part  thereof  was 
purchased  from  the  Natives  by  the  Inhabitants  of 
this  Colony,  and  clandestinely  getts  the  s*^  Charter  to 
be  Bounded  on  the  East  by  the  Narraganset  River 
commonly  called  the  Narraganset  Bay.  My  Clark 
the  Agent  for  this  Colony,  dureing  this  private  and 
Fraudulant  proceeding  of  M'  Winthrop,  thought 
himself  secure  waiting  for  said  Winthrops  call,  pur- 
suant to  his  agreement,  but  when  he  was  informed 
of  said  Winthrops  clandestine  and  sirobtitious  pro- 

1  This  charter  is  printed  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  I.,  I,  143. 


Correspondence  of  the 


ceeding  immediately  addrest  the  King  for  Releif  who 
out  of  his  princely  goodness  (hauing  a  perticular 
regard  for  this  Colony  as  he  expres't  himself,  orders 
Connecticut  Charter  to  be  called  in  and  stopt  till  the 
Matter  in  Difference  should  be  determined,  to  com- 
premise  which  the  Agents  mutually  made  choice  of 
several  Gentlemen  to  settle  that  matter  but  before 
they  had  finished,  M""  Winthrop  by  false  suggestions 
and  insinuations  to  the  Lord  Chancellor  (unknown 
to  Mr  Clark)  getts  out  Connecticut  Charter  a  second 
time  and  privately  sends  it  away,  for  which  fraudilent 
and  contemtious  Action  he  was  severely  reprimanded 
by  the  King  and  the  Charter  threatned  to  be  called 
back  againe,  but  the  Arbitrators  agreeing,  and  the 
Agents  signing  the  said  agreement  of  w""?"  agree- 
ment you  have  an  attested  copy,  had  MT  Winthrop 
been  faithfull  to  his  word  and  the  promise  of  a 
Gentleman,  and  not  have  proved  himself  false  and 
Treachirous,  the  Charters  would  have  been  taken 
out  togeather  att  one  and  the  same  time  and  bore 
equall  date  and  would  have  prevented  that  Govern! 
from  disputeing  the  Kings  prerogative,  who  upon  the 
aforesaid  agreement  ordered  our  present  Charter  to 
be  drawn  in  a  most  Gracious  manner  with  many 
great  Libertyes  and  privilidges  as  is  fully  sett  forth 
in  said  Charter  under  the  great  Seal  of  England,^ 
and  his  said  Majesty  to  prevent  future  disputes  that 
might  arise  between  the  two  Colonyes  as  to  the 
uncertainty  of  the   Easterly  Bound   of  Connecticut 


1  The  original  documents  relating  to  this  episode  may  be  found  in  the  Calendar 
of  State  Papers,  Colonial,  ibbi-ibbS,  pp.  20,  no,  145,  148;  and  see  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /., 
Vol.  I. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island  5 

Charter  about  the  Narraganset  River  commonly  called 
the  Narraganset  Bay  explaines  and  determines  (Pur- 
suant to  the  Agents  Agreement)  which  was  the  Nar- 
raganset River  mentioned  to  be  the  Easterly  Bounds 
of  Connecticot  Charter  there  being  no  other  River 
cal'd  or  known  by  that  name  till  his  Majesties  afores^ 
Determination,  nor  is  there  to  this  day  nor  was  Nar- 
raganset Bay  ever  called  a  River,  but  by  Connecticot 
and  some  others  who  alwayes  sought  the  ruin  and 
distruction  of  this  Colony,  the  Bay  being  of  a  consid- 
erable wedth,  and  such  a  Bay  as  tis  presumed  was 
never  called  a  river,  in  any  the  Mapps  of  the  World, 
with  humble  submission  wee  conceive  it  to  bee  a 
verry  great  presumption  in  the  Government  of  Con- 
necticot to  dispute  and  arraigne  the  Kings  prerog- 
ative, determined  and  confirmed  under  the  great 
seal  of  England  by  and  with  the  concurrance  and 
approbation  of  their  Agents,  and  altho  Connecticot 
Charter  was  dated  ^  some  time  before  that  of  this 
Colony  which  was  clandistinely  obtained  by  surprise 
as  aforesf  the  Grant  to  this  Colony  by  his  Majestye's 
Royal  word  as  our  Agent  certainly  informed  was 
before  that  to  Connecticot  the  matter  in  difference 
being  which  is  the  Narraganset  river  the  bounds 
between  the  two  Colonyes  whether  it  be  the  Narra- 
ganset Bay  insinuated  by  the  Government  of  Con- 
necticut to  be  that  River,  or  that  which  the  King 
determined  in  our  Royall  Charter  was  the  Narragan- 
set River  and  should  ever  after  be  called   the  Nar- 


1  The  charter  for  Connecticut  was  obtained  in  1662.     That  for  Rhode  Island  was 
dated  July  8,  1663.     See  the  "  Agents  Agreement"  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  I.  518. 


Correspondence  of  the 


raganset  River/  mentioned  as  the  Easterly  bounds 
of  Connecticot  Colony,  so  that  our  appeal  to  His 
present  most  Gracious  Majestye  King  George  was 
only  to  pray  his  Royal  determination,  wheather  the 
sacred  words  of  his  Royall  Predecessor  under  the 
great  Seal  of  England,  was  not  more  binding  and  of 
greater  force  then  the  words  of  his  Vassals  and  Sub- 
jects, who  speak  for  their  own  interest  and  gaine, 
and  that  we  might  be  protected  against  the  unjust 
molestation  and  Intrusions  of  the  Government  of 
Connecticot  upon  our  rights  and  propertyes  which 
we  have  possessed  upwards  of  fourscore  years,  and 
the  matter  being  now  before  his  Majestye. 

We  answer  to  their  Lordships  first  proposition, 
about  quieting  the  difference  between  this  Govern- 
ment and  the  Government  of  Connecticut  with  hum- 
ble submission,  and  due  regard  to  their  Lordships 
great  Wisdom,  we  say  wee  have  no  differance  with 
the  Government  of  Connecticot,  but  what  His  Maj- 
estyes  Royall  word  will  determine  as  afores^  for  the 
obtaining  of  which  as  dutifull  and  Loyall  subjects 
shall  patiently  wait  and  doubt  not  but  his  princely 
wisdom  will  influence  him  to  confirm  us  in  our  just 
rights  and  Properties  in  the  possession  of  the  Grant 
of  His  Royall  Predecessor,  according  to  Our  Charter. 

To  the  Second  proposition  insisted  upon  by  their 
Lordships  viz!  for  the  better  defence  of  the  Country, 
wee  answer  that  His  Majesty  its  true  may  strengthen 
us  with  standing  Troops,  but  for  any  other  strength, 
as  we  are  a  Frontier  to  the  Ocian,  the  Inlets  into  our 
Bay  is  so  open  and  wide  that  it  is  impracticable  to 

1  This  was  the  Pawcatuck  River.    See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  I.,  I.  518. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island  7 

fortifie  them  so  as  to  prevent  an  enemy  from  enter- 
ing into  the  same  tho'  at  this  time  wee  are  Building 
our  Fort  more  regular  and  defencable,  with  stone 
and  Lime  morter  for  the  security  of  Trade  and  Navi- 
gation, the  Colony  having  already  given  five  thou- 
sand pounds  towards  the  carrying  on  that  work,  the 
strength  of  this  Colony  (under  the  Protection  of  God) 
consists  in  our  Militia  who  are  Trained  up  and  exer- 
cised in  Military  discipline  and  are  obliged  continu- 
ally as  well  in  peace  as  in  warr,  to  be  supplyed  each 
man  with  a  good  fire  arme,  powder  and  Ball  and 
they  are  generally  verry  expert  in  the  use  of  them, 
so  that  through  the  blessing  of  God,  wee  have  not 
only  defended  ourselves  against  his  Majestyes  and 
the  Colonyes  Enemies,  but  have  very  frequently  of- 
fended them  both  by  Land  and  by  Sea,  and  upon  any 
expedition  against  the  Kings  Enemies,  have  exceeded 
our  quota's  with  the  rest  of  the  Colonyes  and  Pro- 
vinces. 

To  the  third  proposition  that  Trade  may  be  better 
secured  &c^  wee  answer  as  aforesaid,  that  wee  are 
fortifying  our  Harbour  more  strongly  for  the  security 
of  Trade  &c^  and  to  enable  our  Governour  to  comply 
with  the  Acts  of  Trade  and  Navigation,  the  which 
he  is  annually  sworne  to  observe  and  the  which  he 
hath  to  the  utmost  of  his  power  duly  performed  in 
his  circumstance  (considering  the  Constitution  of  the 
Government  obligeth  him  to  be  more  careful!  and 
circumspect  upon  that  foot,  then  any  that  is  distin- 
guished by  the  name  of  a  Kings  Govern^,  for  which 
many  reasons  could  be  given,  but  for  brevity's  sake 
shall  forbear. 


8  Correspondence  of  the 

Fourthly  to  be  annexed  to  New  Hampshire  besides 
its  being  impracticable,  wee  answer  that  our  Predi- 
cessors  through  great  perills,  labour  and  hardship 
as  is  before  recited,  left  us  their  purchases  labour 
and  improvements  as  our  Birth  right  to  which  by  the 
favour  and  clemency  of  a  most  gracious  King  they 
Tacked  our  present  Charter  full  of  valuable  privi- 
ledges  &c^  and  as  they  with  great  cost  and  difficulty 
obtained  and  defended  the  same  against  their  envious 
and  ungrateful  Neighbours  and  others  for  the  good 
of  their  offspring  and  Posterity,  so  we  hold  ourselves 
in  duty  and  concience  bound  to  endeavour  the  preser- 
vation of  so  valuable  a  blessing,  and  question  not,  but 
so  long  as  we  continue  dutifull  Loyall  and  obedient 
Subjects  to  his  present  Majesty  King  George  and  his 
Royall  Issue  but  to  be  protected  in  our  liberty  and 
property  the  which  through  his  Princly  goodness  he 
hath  so  often  declared  to  maintaine  and  in  a  most 
pathetick  manner  upon  his  accession  to  the  Throne. 

Fifthly,  as  to  our  being  annexed  to  the  province  of 
New  Hampshire  under  a  Kings  Governour,  wee  an- 
swer as  before,  that  it  is  impracticable  to  be  annexed 
to  that  Province  should  it  be  our  misfortune  to  have 
our  Charter  vacated  and  taken  from  us,  the  great 
Province  of  the  Massachusets  interveaning  and  lying 
between  this  Colony  and  that  Province,  and  with 
humble  submission  wee  presume  that  the  Governor 
of  this  his  Majesty's  Colony  is  as  much  a  Kings  Gov*; 
as  any  Governor  in  America  by  vertue  of  our  Royall 
Charter  under  the  great  Seal  of  England,  and  wee 
esteem  him  as  such  during  his  Administration,  and 
he  makes  the  Laws  of  England  his  rule  and  governm! 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island  9 

without  it  be  some  perticular  Laws  of  the  Colony 
which  the  Laws  of  England  could  not  releave  us  in, 
tho'  not  repugnant,  and  he  is  under  the  same  restric- 
tions and  penalty  for  any  misdemeaniour  or  trans- 
gression by  him  committed  as  any  other  of  the  King^ 
Governors  under  his  immediate  commission,  and  by 
an  Act  of  Parliment  made  in  the  Reigne  of  King 
William  the  3"^^  as  liable  to  be  called  home  to  great 
Brittaine  to  answer  the  same. 

Wee  humbly  conceive  that  the  vacating  and  take- 
ing  away  Charters  of  Incorporation  granted  by  the 
Crowne  (without  just  cause  of  forfeiture)  was  never 
known  but  in  an  arbitrary  Reigne  as  in  that  of  King 
James  the  2°.^  when  all  Corporations  and  Charters 
were  crush't  and  trampled  under  foot,  the  effects 
of  which  wee  severely  felt  in  that  short  intervail  of 
S'  Edmund  Andros's  Government^  whose  arbitrary 
will  with  a  few  of  his  creatures  was  a  Law  and  the 
Kings  subjects  made  Vassals  and  Slaves  in  defiance 
of  Magnacharta  and  the  liberty  of  a  British  Subject, 
wee  would  not  be  thought  by  what  is  before  re- 
cited to  make  any  reflection  upon  his  present  Majes- 
tyes  Governor  under  his  immediate  Commission  they 
being  under  the  regulation  and  correction  of  a  most 
Just  and  Gracious  Prince  who  will  not  suffer  or  coun- 
tenance the  violating  and  infringing  the  liberty  and 
property  of  his  faithfull  and  loyall  Subjects  (but  as 
the  Proverb  is  what  hath  been  may  be  againe)  and 
our  Royall  Charter  and  most  gracious  privilidges 
once  given  up  there  is  no  prospect  of  obtaining  the 
igain. 

1  II  William  III.  c.  12.  2  1686-1689. 


lo  Correspondence  of  the 

Wee  would  have  presumed  so  farr  upon  their  Lord- 
ships favour  to  have  some  remarks  upon  the  differ- 
ence wee  conceive,  there  is  between  a  Governor  under 
his  Majesty's  immediate  Commission  and  a  Charter 
Governor,  but  that  being  already  so  truly  explained 
by  Mr  Dummer  in  his  Book  ^  put  forth  in  vindication 
of  Charter  Governments,  that  wee  shall  not  make  any 
further  reflections  thereon  to  which  Book  wee  referr 
upon  that  head  and  sundry  others  therein  sett  forth. 

Upon  the  whole  wee  humbly  pray  that  their  Lord- 
ships will  believe  wee  have  a  Tincture  of  the  ancient 
British  Blood  in  our  veines  and  that  wee  esteem  our 
liberty  and  property  granted  by  Our  Royall  Charter 
equall  to  any  Corporation  in  great  Brittain,  though 
not  of  like  value  and  wee  hope  our  loyalty  and  con- 
duct for  the  service  and  interest  of  the  Crowne  of 
great  Brittaine  hath  no  wayes  merrited  the  forfeiture 
of  so  valuable  a  blessing  and  have  faith  to  believe, 
that  so  long  as  wee  continue  faithfull,  loyall  and 
obeadient  Subjects  to  His  Royall  Majestye  King 
George  and  his  Illustrious  Issue  that  we  shall  be  con- 
firmed and  protected  in  our  rights  and  properties, 
tho'  at  the  same  time  wee  are  not  ignorant,  that  the 
Enemies  to  our  present  Constitution  take  all  oppor- 
tunityes  to  misrepresent  our  conduct,  wee  therefore 


1  "The  able,  accomplished,  and  courtly  Jeremy  Dummer"  was  a  theologian  and 
pulpit  orator  of  no  mean  ability.  He  graduated  from  Harvard  in  1699,  and  obtained 
a  doctor's  degree  at  Utrecht.  He  went  to  England  and  attached  himself  to  Boling- 
broke,  but  the  death  of  Queen  Anne  and  fall  of  his  patron  destroyed  his  hopes  of  a 
political  career.  He  was  agent  for  Massachusetts  from  1710  to  1721,  and  for  Con- 
necticut from  1712  until  1730.  In  1721  he  published,  in  London,  his  Defence  of  the 
New  Engl attd  Charters, -wXrich  was  printed  in  Boston  in  that  same  year.  A  second 
edition  was  brought  out  in  172S,  at  the  time  when  the  king  in  council  had,  on  appeal, 
reversed  the  decision  of  the  Connecticut  courts  in  the  case  of  Winthrop  vs.  Lechmere. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         1 1 

pray  that  their  Lordships  will  be  pleased  to  extend 
their  Charity  so  far  as  not  to  give  credit  to  such 
reports  as  may  be  insinuated  against  us  till  wee  have 
had  liberty  to  answer  for  ourselves,  and  are  lawfully 
convicted.  And  wee  hope  their  lordships  in  their 
Wisdom,  upon  a  further  consideration  of  the  afore- 
said Premises  will  be  of  opinion  that  it  will  not  be 
for  the  Interest  of  Great  Brittain  nor  for  the  quieting 
our  differance,  the  Defence  of  the  Country,  nor  the 
better  security  and  increase  of  Trade,  to  vacate  and 
destroy  our  Charter,  tho'  it  may  be  of  service  and 
Interest  of  some  perticular  Men. 

Wee  also  pray  that  their  Lordships  will  be  pleased 
to  put  the  most  favourable  construction  on  our  plain 
and  sincear  manner  of  expressing  ourselves,  by  en- 
deavouring to  maintain  and  support  our  just  rights 
and  propertyes,  and  that  they  will  believe  that  wee 
have  not  done  any  thing  in  contempt  or  any  wayes 
to  slight  their  Lordships  propositions  and  advice  to 
which  wee  do  and  will  all  wayes  pay  our  due  regards, 
but  wee  fear  their  Lordships  have  not  been  rightly 
and  truly  informed  of  the  scituation  of  this  Country 
and  the  disadvantage  and  prejudice  it  would  be  to 
his  Majesty  and  the  Interest  of  this  Colony  to  be 
annexed,  either  to  the  Province  of  New  Hampsheir 
or  to  the  Colony  of  Connecticot,  the  latter  (upon 
such  a  change)  wee  have  just  cause  to  believe  would 
invade  our  Property  and  purchase  rights,  by  their 
superiority  of  voices  and  ruin  some  hundreds  of  Fam- 
ilyes  and  the  former  will  impoverish  our  strength  by 
lightning  our  purses. 

To  conclude  wee  pray  that  their  Lordships  in  their 


1 2  Correspondence  of  the 

great  Wisdom  will  be  pleased  to  make  a  more  fa- 
vourable report  in  behalfe  of  this  His  Majestyes  Col- 
ony, and  that  they  will  believe  that  the  vacating  and 
takeing  away  our  Royall  Charter  will  not  be  for  the 
service  and  interest  of  his  Majesty,  and  that  the  con- 
tinuance thereof  with  his  Maj'^f'"  Royall  protection 
will  with  the  blessing  of  God  make  us  a  happy  and 
flourishing  people,  and  enable  us  to  be  more  and 
more  capable  to  be  serviceable  to  his  Maj'^.'*  Crown 
and  dignity  with  our  Lives  and  fortunes,  with  this 
view  wee  shall  as  dutifull  and  Loyall  Subjects  sub- 
mitt  ourselves  and  our  just  cause  now  before  him  to 
his  Princely  determination,  and  doubt  not  but  tho' 
[thro'  ?]  his  great  wisdom,  justice  and  goodness  to 
receive  his  Royall  word  in  our  favour,  the  which  will 
putt  a  period  to  the  differance  now  depending  with- 
out being  put  under  a  Kings  Governor  as  their 
Lordships  have  been  pleased  to  recommend  and  will 
oblige  us  the  more  fervently  to  pray  for  their  Lord- 
ships health  and  prosperity  and  to  subscribe  their 
Lordships  most  obeadient  and  obliged  humble  ser- 
vants ;  the  Governor  and  Company  of  His  Majestyes 
English  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence 
Plantations  in  New  England.* 

Sam^.^  Cranston  Govern^ 

Newport  on  Rode  Island  November  aC'!"  1723. 

To  Richard  Partridge  Esq' 

Agent  for   the    Colony   of  Rhode    Island    and 
Providence  Plantations.     In  London. 


1  For  a  statement  of  the  adjustment  of  the  Connecticut  and  Rhode  Island  boundary, 
see  p.  xxiii  of  the  Introduction, 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        1 3 

RICHARD   PARTRIDGE   TO   THE   LORDS   OF   TRADE.^ 

May  it  please  the  Lords  Commiss^'f 

In  obedience  to  your  directions  to  me  some  time 
since,  to  write  over  to  the  Govern*  of  Rhoad  Island 
&c?  to  know  if  they  were  willing  that  their  Colony 
shf  be  annexed  to  the  Kings  Governm!  of  New 
Hampshire  &c^  I  did  write  to  them  accordingly 
and  now  I  have  received  their  answer  in  a  letter 
directed  to  myself^  wherein  they  signifie  their  un- 
willingness to  comply  to  the  proposition  which  letter 
I  send  you  inclosed  and  referr  to  the  contents  of  it. 

I  find  they  would  by  no  means  part  with  any 
of  their  Priviledges  granted  them  by  their  Charter 
unless  it  be  wrenched  from  them  against  their  minds 
which  is  humbly  hoped  will  not  be  done  till  they 
have  forfeited  it. 

As  farr  as  I  can  learn  it  is  not  only  impracticable 
to  joyne  Rhode  Island,  Connect  and  New  Hamp- 
shire together  by  reason  of  the  distant  Scituation  of 
the  Governments  but  it  would  be  very  Injurious  to 
our  Inhabitants  for  that  many  Substantiall  familys 
would  be  liable  to  be  turn'd  off  from  their  Estates 
and  ruined,  being  our  Oppon'.^  in  the  present  Con- 
troversy between  us  would  (when  joined  us)  be  much 
the  Superior  in  Number  and  votes  and  thereby  carry 
what  they  please  against  us,  and  we  are  fully  per- 
swaded  would  favour  a  Certain  Company  of  Men  of 
their  own  sort,  who  claim  under  pretence  of  an  Old 

1  Copied  from  the  transcript  in  the  John  Carter  Brown  Library,  S.  P.  O.  Proprieties 
B.  T.,  Vol.  XI.  R.  44.      For  an  account  of  Partridge, see  p.  xvii  of  the  Introduction. 

2  See  preceding  document. 


14  Correspondence  of  the 

Mortgage  from  the  Indians  (fraudulently  obtained) 
great  part  of  our  Lands  in  Providence  Plantations 
(which  our  People  are  the  Right  and  true  purchacers 
and  possess?  off.)  so  not  only  the  Right  of  Gov- 
ernm!  but  private  propertie  also  is  most  imediatly  and 
nearly  concern 'd  in  the  matter  of  Controversy  as  to 
the  Bounds  between  Connecticut  and  Rhode  Island 
as  I  am  able  at  a  proper  Season  more  clearly  to 
demonstrate ;  and  seeing  therefore  this  Colony  of 
ours  has  been  as  an  Asylum  or  place  of  Refuge  from 
the  beginning  of  the  settlement  thereof  to  this  day, 
to  such  especially  who  once  lived  under  the  yoke  of 
the  Massachusets  Govern'  and  have  formerly  experi- 
enced it  as  they  dissented  from  them,  to  be  very 
Grievous  and  too  heavy  to  be  borne. 

And  now  laterly  the  Lords  of  Trade  themselves, 
cannot  but  be  sencible  from  what  has  happend  in 
that  Government  even  at  this  time,^  how  that  many 
consciencious  People  are  under  sufferings  there,  who 
differ  from  their  Provincial  way  of  Worship  sett  up 
and  established  in  that  Province  and  sh*?  we  be 
blended  together  with  Connecticut  and  New  Hamp- 
shire where  the  people  are  of  like  principles,  the  evil 
consequences  would  be  greater  than  can  be  easily 
imao^ined. 

Wherefore  upon  the  whole  it  is  humbly  hoped  that 
Our  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plan- 
tations may  remaine  as  they  are  under  the  happy 
Government  of  our  present  Gracious  King  George 
(whom  God  grant  long  to  Reign  over  us)  in  the  quiet 


1  This  refers  to  the  action  of  the  Massachusetts  Assembly  in  extending  and  continu- 
ing the  Act  of  the  session  of  1715-16,  "for  maintaining  and  propagating  religion." 
Acts  and  Resolves,  II.  244. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         1 5 

enjoyment  of  the  Rights  Priviledges  and  Possessions 
of  their  Forefathers  granted  by  their  Charter,  as  well 
as  they  have  done  in  the  preceeding  Reigns  and  that 
a  favourable  representation  shall  be  made  in  our  be- 
half when  there  may  be  occasion. 

And  now  our  answer  is  come  over,  as  is  also  that 
of  Connecticut  as  I  am  informed  I  humbly  pray  you 
would  appoint  a  day  for  reconsidering  our  affair  of 
the  Bounds  agreeable  to  the  last  Order  of  the  Lords 
of  the  Committee,  and  that  we  may  have  Council 
allowed  to  speak  to  some  matters  of  moment  relating 
thereto,  which  I  have  to  lay  before  you  and  I  have 
been  furnished  with  since  our  last  hearing. 

Richard  Partridge 
Agent  for  Rhode  Island,  Provid :  Plant. 

London  izr  called  Feb?  the  lo'?,  \^2\. 


GOVERNOR  JENCKS^  TO  GEORGE  II. 

To  the  King's  most  Excellent  Majesty? 

We  Your  Majestys  Dutifull  and  Loyal  Subjects  the 
Governour  and  Company  of  your  Majesty's  English 
Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plantations 
in  New  England  in  America,  With  thankfuU  Hearts, 
Acknowledge  your  Majesty's  Royal  Favour  in  con- 

1  Joseph  Jencks  of  Pawtucket,  who  succeeded  Samuel  Cranston  as  governor  of 
Rhode  Island  in  1727,  and  held  the  office  until  1732. 

2  This  document  is  not  dated,  but  probably  may  be  assigned  to  the  summer  of  1729, 
as  in  the  records  for  the  June  session  of  the  Assembly  for  that  year  it  is  ordered  that 
the  governor  draw  a  petition  "  that  His  Majesty  would  be  pleased  to  bestow  upon  the 
colony  a  suitable  number  of  guns  for  the  fort."  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  I.  IV.  428.  Bartlett 
prints  this  letter  at  p.  393  of  this  volume,  immediately  following  the  August  session  of 
1727,  but  gives  no  reason  for  doing  so.  He  copies  a  document  in  the  John  Carter 
Brown  MSS.  II.  No.  95. 


1 6  Correspondence  of  the 

tinuing  unto  us  the  quiet  Enjoyment  of  our  Ancient 
Charter  Priviledges,  great  in  their  Nature,  but  far 
greater  by  being  Suited  to  the  Circumstances  of  this 
your  Majesty's  Colony;  or  rather  in  that  we  your 
Majesty's  Subjects  have  had  our  Birth  Growth  and 
Improvements  under  the  same. 

In  the  Enjoyment  of  these  our  Priviledges  We  con- 
ceived it  but  a  just  Acknowledgement  of  our  Duty 
and  a  due  Tribute  to  our  Gracious  Soveraign  to  ex- 
pend some  Part  of  our  small  Acquisitions  of  Fortune 
in  these  Remote  Parts  of  your  Majesty's  Dominions  in 
Fortifying  the  Frontier  Parts  thereof  and  puting  the 
same  in  such  a  State  and  Condition  as  not  to  fear  any 
Attack  from  the  Enemies  of  your  Majesties  peace. 

This  we  were  moved  to  Undertake  and  Carry  on 
not  purely  for  our  own  safety  and  preservation,  but 
rather  by  the  principles  of  Gratitude  raised  by  the 
Priviledges  we  Enjoy  and  above  all  by  a  fixed  and 
steady  Resolution  of  doing  every  thing  that  Provi- 
dence had  put  in  our  Power  to  do  for  the  Maintain- 
ing and  preserving  that  Part  of  the  Territories  and 
Dominions  of  our  most  good  and  Beneficent  Sov- 
eraign committed  to  our  Care. 

What  we  your  Majesty's  Subjects  Apprehended  to 
be  most  for  the  Safety  and  preservation  of  your  Maj- 
estys  Colony  and  Dominions  Adjacent  was  the  For- 
tifying Newport  the  Chief  Town  in  said  Colony,  and 
the  most  Frontier  upon  all  the  Coast  of  New  Eng- 
land; Where  we  your  Majesty's  Subjects  have  Built 
a  Regular  and  Beautifull  Fortification  of  Stone  with 
a  Battery  Subjoined  wherein  may  be  conveniently 
mounted  Sixty  Cannon. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island  1 7 

And  we  being  well  Assured  of  your  Majesty's  good 
Disposition  towards  all  your  Subjects,  are,  therefore, 
emboldened  to  Entreat  Your  Majesty  graciously  to 
Consider  these  Parts  of  your  Majesty's  Dominions, 
by  us  inhabited,  detached  from  the  rest.  And  thereby 
Labouring  under  many  Difficulties,  And  that  our 
afores'J  Work  may  be  rendered  Usefull  to  your  Maj- 
esty (and  thereby  have  its'  designed  Effect)  bestow 
upon  said  Fortifications  for  the  Use  of  your  Majesty 
therein,  A  Number  of  Cannon ;  As  may  be  Consist- 
ent with  your  Majesty's  Royal  Pleasure. 

May  this  Instance  of  our  Duty  and  Loyalty  find 
Acceptance,  And  may  we  take  leave  to  Assure  Your 
Majesty  that  the  Prospect  of  Happiness  displayed  by 
the  hand  of  providence  in  your  Majesty's  Glorious 
Reign  is  matter  of  Unutterable  Joys,  And  that  there 
is  nothing  on  Earth  that  we  pray  for  with  more  Con- 
stancy and  Sincerity  than  that  your  Majesty,  who  has 
been  the  Means  (by  the  Favour  of  God)  of  preserving 
and  Distributing  the  Blessings  of  peace  to  all  your 
Subjects  (Notwithstanding  the  mighty  Efforts  of  your 
Enemies  to  disturb  the  same)  May  after  a  long  Con- 
tinuance in  the  full  Fruition  of  all  Earthly  Blessings 
be  Translated  into  Heaven  and  be  a  happy  Sharer 
of  the  inestimable  Blessings  of  the  prince  of  Peace, 
the  sure  reward  of  Virtue :  and  That  the  Happiness 
of  Great  Brittain  may  be  made  lasting  and  Continue 
to  future  Generations,  By  the  Succession  of  Your 
Majestys  Royal  Heirs  til'  time  shall  Cease. 

Sign'd  in  the  Name  and  behalf  of  the  General 
Assembly  of  said  Colony  and  by 

J.  Jenks  Gov' 


1 8  Correspo7idence  of  the 

RICHARD    WARD^   TO   THE    MASSACHUSETTS    ASSEMBLY. 

NewpT  May  27'?  1731 

Gentlm 

The  Assembly  of  this  Colony,  were  much  surprised 
at  the  averseness  your  Commissioners  showed  to  set- 
ling  the  Boundarys  between  this  Governm',  and  that 
Part  of  your  Province  late  Plymouth  Colony;  from 
Pawtucket  Falls  North  to  the  Massachusets  South 
Line ;  and  have  ordered  me  ^  to  acquaint  you  with 
it.  and  to  Press  you  once  more  to  appoint  commis- 
sioners for  the  doing  of  the  same ;  this  Government 
are  ready,  and  willing  to  Joyn  with  you  therein :  but 
if  you  Decline  it;  then  to  give  us  your  Positive  an- 
swer thereto ;  that  wee  may  Proceed  further  in  this 
Affair  and  lay  the  same  before  his  Majestie  for  his 
Royal  Determination  thereof;  which  wee  think  will 
be  Easily  obtained  there ;  his  Majestys  bounding  of 
us  on  that  part  being  so  clearly  and  Conspicuously 
expressed  in  our  Charter.  However  I  could  be  glad 
it  might  be  ended  amongst  ourselves  as  being  un- 
willing to  trouble  his  Majestie  therewith,  or  the  Board 
of  Trade  who  have  ordered  us  to  give  them  Ace'  if 
any  part  of  our  Governm'  is  controverted  and  by 
whom 

Sign'd  by  order  and  in  behalfe  of  the  Gen'  Assem- 


1  Ward  was  prominent  in  Rhode  Island  from  1710  to  his  death,  in  1763.  For  nine- 
teen years  he  held  the  office  of  secretary  or  recorder,  and  also  served  as  boundary 
commissioner  and  as  attorney -general.  In  July,  1740,  he  was  chosen  ijovernor  by  the 
Assembly  on  the  death  of  Governor  John  Wanton,  and  held  the  position  during  the 
two  following  years.  He  was  the  father  of  Governor  Samuel  Ward  and  of  Secretary 
Thomas  Ward.     Arnold,  History  of  Rhode  Island,  II.  245. 

2  See  Col.  Rec,  of  R.  /.,  IV.  445,  for  the  Act  appointing  the  commission. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island  1 9 

bly  of  his  Majesties  Colony  of  R*^  Island  &c  by  your 
humble  Servant 

R  Ward 

[Endorsed :]   Copy  of  Letter  to  Massachusetts  ab* 
the  Line. 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    GOVERNOR   JENCKS. 

London  6mo.  the  23?  1731 
Col°.  Jencks 

I  writt  thee  of  the  29*.''  4  mo.  last  to  which  I  referr. 
this  now  comes  chiefly  to  accompany  my  ace'*  in  the 
late  Affair  relating  to  opposing  the  Sugar  BilP  which 
besides  what  the  N.  Eng?  Agent  paid  amounts  to 
^221.12.10.  2/3ds  whereof  I  charge  to  the  Colony  of 
Rh^  Island  being  ;!^  147. 15.3.  the  rema^  1/3  to  New- 
Jersies.  I  was  indeed  surprized  at  the  Sollicitn  Bill 
when  it  was  brought  in,  it  being  as  much  again  as  I 
expected,  but  I  dont  know  how  to  remedie  it  now ; 
the  Council  Fees  w''''  Fra:  Wilks^  paid  in  this  Busi- 
ness was  upw"^.*  of  100  guinys  besides  what  I  paid, 
none  of  which  fees  of  his  Council  I  would  admitt  to 
be  brought  into  my  ace'*,  so  that  I  savd  considerable 
that  way.  I  sh^  be  glad  to  know  if  the  colony  w*^ 
have  me  oppose  it  again  next  Sessions  for  I  am  in- 


1  The  Sugar  Bill  referred  to  was  enacted  in  1733  (6  George  II.  c.  13),  after  two  years 
of  discussion.  A  petition  against  it,  from  Rhode  Island  (1733),  was  refused  by  the 
House  of  Commons  on  the  ground  that  the  Act  was  a  money-bill.  {Pari.  Hist.,  VIII. 
1 261.)  It  was  intended  to  help  the  West  India  colonies,  and  imposed  a  duty  of  6d. 
per  gallon  on  molasses,  9d.  per  gallon  on  rum,  5s.  per  hundredweight  on  sugar 
imported  from  foreign  colonies  into  the  British  plantations.  It  was  imposed  for 
three  years,  and  extended  by  successive  enactments.  In  1764,  the  duties  of  the  old 
Act  were  reduced  one  half,  but  other  commodities  were  burdened. 

2  Agent  for  the  colony  of  Connecticut,  and  later  for  Massachusetts. 


20  Correspondence  of  the 

formd   the  Barbadians  will  certainly  have  an  other 
push  for  it  then. 

I  am  with  due  respects 

Thy  faithful  fr^ 

RiCH°  Partridge 

I  believe  the  Barbad'  people  would  give  or  expend 
at  lest  ^2000  sterl?  to  obtain  their  end. 

To  Ball  of  my  last  ace*  due  to  me  ;^  1 1     3     o 

To  2/3ds  of  the  charg  in  opposing  the 

Sug^  Bill  145   15     3 

due  to  R.  P.     .     .       156   15     3 
To  Joseph  Jencks  EsqT 

Govern'  of  Rhoad  Island  and  Providence  Plan- 
tations 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    DEPUTY-GOVERNOR   WANTON.^ 

London  FebT4*.''  173^. 
John  Wanton^ 

Lo.  Friend  I  rec'?  the  Letter  from  the  council  of 
Rhode  Island,  without  Date,  relating  to  a  controversy 
arising  in  your  Colony  about  the  Act  for  Emitting 
Sixty  Thousand  Pounds  i7i  Bills  of  Credit.  I  have 
also  another  from  Samuel  Vernon  and  other  Assist- 
ants of  the  12'^  of  September  last  and  one  Since 
from  the  Speaker  and  Secretary  in  Behalf  of  the  Gen- 


1  Copied  from  the  Foster  Papers,  II.  147,  in  the  Rhode  Island  Historical  Society. 

2  John  Wanton  was  deputy-governor  of  Rhode  Island  in  1721  and  from  1729  to  1734, 
when,  upon  the  death  of  his  brother,  Governor  William  Wanton,  he  was  elected  to  the 
vacant  place,  and  served  the  colony  as  governor  until  his  death,  in  1742. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island  2 1 

eral  Court  of  the  Second  of  Nov.'  upon  the  aforesaid 
Subject/ 

I  [am]  very  Sorry  that  any  such  Difference  should 
have  happened  for  if  prosecuted  here  I  doubt  it  will 
be  a  Means  of  laying  ourselves  open  and  be  attended 
with  ill  Consequences  from  such  who  are  no  Friends 
to  the  Northern  Colonies  for  preventing  of  which 
nothing  shall  be  wanting  on  my  part  for  the  Good 
of  the  Government. 

When  the  2  first  Letters  come  I  was  gone  a  Jour- 
ney to  my  Daughters  in  the  Country  and  T.  Sand- 
ford^  delivered  the  Representation  N"  i.  which  was 
lodged  at  the  Board  of  Trade  and  the  other  Two 
at  the  Duke  of  Newcastles  office  of  all  which  I  have 
obtained  Copies  which  comes  herewith  (the  Names 
excepted) 

Those  at  the  Dukes  Office  an  Order  of  Referrence 
was  made  on  them  to  the  Board  of  Trade  But  I 
used  my  Endeavour  that  they  might  be  stopped  from 
being  carried  to  the  Office  or  prosecuted  indeed 
any  further.  I  acquainting  Sandford  I  was  in  hopes 
the  Difference  might  be  made  up  and  ended  in 
the  Country  And  that  We  might  expect  such  Notice 
I  hoped  in  a  Little  Time  &c.  at  length  came  Gov^ 
Jenckes's  Letter  to  him  not  to  deliver  his  Petition 
(if  it  was  not  done  already),  But  he  says  as  it  was 
delivered  and  a  Referrence  thereon  to  the  Board  of 
Trade  he  must  proceed  having  given  his  Promise  to 

1  These  documents  are  not  in  the  archives.  For  a  notice  of  the  controversy  referred 
to,  see  p.  xxiv  of  the  Introduction. 

2  Thomas  Sandford,  a  London  merchant  doing  business  for  the  colony,  to  whom 
the  complaints  from  Rhode  Island  were  sent.  Arnold,  History  of  Rhode  Island,  II. 
105. 


2  2  Correspondence  of  the 

the  Gen*^^  who  writ  to  him  about  it  I  told  him  the 
Speaker  and  Secretary  of  the  Colony  writ  Me  as 
from  the  General  Court.  That  the  Govf  had  writ 
him  not  only  not  to  deliver  the  Petition  if  it  was  not 
already  dd,  but  if  it  was  delivered  not  to  prosecute  it 
which  he  denyed  alledging  he  had  no  such  Order  not 
to  prosecute  if  it  was  dd.  I  entreated  him  all  I  could 
to  forbear  at  least  till  he  had  heard  again  from  Rhode 
Island  setting  forth  the  111  Tendency  it  might  be 
of  to  the  Colony  and  writ  him  a  Letter  Also  a  Copy 
whereof  comes  inclosed.^  And  all  I  could  get  from 
him  was  he  would  keep  it  a  little  longer  by  him  from 
carrying  it  to  the  Board  of  Trade  But  am  afraid 
shall  not  be  able  to  prevail  with  him  to  forbear  long. 
If  I  cannot  I  shall  do  the  best  I  can  in  opposing  it 
and  vindicate  the  Colony  in  the  best  Manner  I  am 
able.  My  Endeavour  however  having  had  some 
Effect  in  keeping  it  hitherto  back  will  be  of  Service 
for  the  Lords  of  Trade  are  drawing  up  a  Representa- 
tion of  the  State  of  the  Plantations  to  lay  before  the 
House  of  Commons  which  will  be  I  believe  presented 
in  3  or  4  Days  at  farthest  and  they  will  not  have  the 
Opportunity  of  Misrepresenting  us  to  such  a  Degree 
as  if  the  Governors  Petition  and  the  Referrence  was 
actually  before  them,  I  wish  the  Gentlemen  (many 
of  whom  are  my  Friends  too)  would  duly  [appreci- 
ate] the  evil  Tendency  and  bad  Consequences  of 
this  their  Undertaking  and  were  thoroughly  Sensible 
of  the  valuable  Privileges  they  enjoy  above  many 
Provinces  in  our  Plantations.  I  am  of  opinion 
they  would  then  not  set  so  light  by  them  which  if 

1  See  the  following  document. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island  23 

by  these  Means  should  be  lost,  I  dare  engage  they 
would  heartily  repent  of  their  Rashness  when  too 
late. 

I  am  gratefully  to  acknowledge  the  due  Care  the 
Colony  has  taken  for  my  Supply.  Having  receivd 
the  Two  Hundred  Pounds  Sterling  remitted  Me  by 
Bill  of  Exchange  and  the  Forty  Three  Ounces  of 
Gold  all  from  George  Goulding  and  Jos.  Whipple^ 
which  I  give  the  Colony  Credit  for  and  shall  give  a 
sure  Account  of 

The  West  India  Gentlemen  are  not  quiet  yet,  but 
as  We  expected  have  began  again  in  the  House  of 
Commons  who  have  already  ordered  a  Bill  to  be 
brought  in  for  the  better  securing  and  encouraging 
the  Trade  of  the  Sugar  Colonies^  &c  which  was  read 
a  first  Time  and  ordered  to  be  read  a  second  Time 
the  15*^  Instant  against  which  Time  I  shall  Petition 
in  Behalf  of  Rhode  Island  and  oppose  it  what  I  can. 
There  are  three  Petitions  against  the  Bill  read  yes- 
terday. 

The  New  York  People  having  no  Agent  here  at 
present  have  sent  over  this  year  to  oppose  such  an 
Act  from  passing  and  committed  the  Care  of  it  to 
certain  Merchants  here  who  have  spoke  to  Me  to 
assist  in  the  present  Case  which  I  agreed  to  and 
assisted  in  drawing  up  their  Case,  one  whereof  I  send 
inclosed.  In  the  present  Bill  they  have  left  out  the 
Restriction  of  sending  Horses  and  Lumber  to  the 
Foreign  Plantations  but  we  think  in  a  Manner  this  is 
as  bad  as  the  old  Bill  for  to  what  Purpose  will  it  be  to 

1  See  vote  of  the  Assembly  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  I.,  IV.  462. 

2  See  note  to  letter  of  6  mo.  (August)  23,  1731. 


24  Correspondence  of  the 

have  Liberty  to  send  away  our  Commodities  if  we 
cannot  have  Returns  for  them  ?  What  Success  we 
shall  have  I  know  not  but  I  believe  it  will  be  a  hard 
Struggle.  We  have  lost  our  best  Evidence  this  Time 
Cap"  Fair  Hall  he  being  won  over  by  the  Berbadions 
to  their  Side  by  being  appointed  Secretary  to  that 
Island  a  confidential  Post  which  is  certainly  owing 
to  the  Opportunity  he  had  in  appearing  for  us  last 
year.     I  am  with  due  Respects  to  the  General  Court 

Their  Faithful  Friend 

R.  Partridge 

[Note  appended.  —  "The  Foregoing  Letter  is  copied  from  the  Original,  in  the 
Handwriting  of  M'.  Partridge.  I  passed  the  Day  at  the  House  of  Moses  Brown  Esq. 
in  Providence,  on  Monday,  September  12'^,  1815.  when  he  lent  Me  the  said  Letter, 
with  the  Copies  mentioned  in  it,  of  Gov":  Jenckes's  Petition  to  the  King,  The  Petition 
from  Newport  to  the  King,  and  M'  Partridge's  Letters  to  Thos.  Sandford  and  John 
Wanton,  all  which  had  been  left  in  the  Grand  Committee's  Office  kept  by  those  who 
signed  the  Bills  of  Public  Credit,  from  which  office  M'  Brown  rescued  them."] 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    THOMAS    SANDFORD.^ 

London  12°°  2*  1731 
Tho'  Sandford'^ 

I  must  once  more  entreat  Thee  to  forbear  deliver- 
ing the  Petition  of  Governor  Jenckes  to  the  Lords 
of  Trade  though  there  be  a  Referrence  upon  it  from 
the  Secretary  of  States  Office  For  it  is  like  to  prove 
of  very  ill  Consequence  to  the  Colony  of  Rhode 
Island  if  it  should  be,  and  I  think  thou  mayst  be 
very  very  well  Justified  in  keeping  it  till  thou  writest 
to  the  Governor  and  hast  rec"^  his  further  Directions 

1  Copied  from  the  Foster  Papers,  II.  146,  in  the  Rhode  Island  Historical  Society. 
Sent  to  Deputy-Governor  Wanton  in  Partridge's  letter  of  February  4,  173^. 

2  See  note  on  p.  22. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         25 

therein,  for  his  Writing  thee  to  keep  it  if  not  yet 
deHverd  because  [of]  these  Words  being  in  it  (Viz!) 
"  That  of  his  Majesty s  Determining  whether  the  Gov- 
ernor of  this  Colony  has  a  Negative  Vote  in  the  Gen- 
eral Assembly  or  not''  shews  his  Inadvertancy  as  to 
that  Particular,  and  that  he  had  rather  it  should  be 
left  out  and  indeed  should  that  now  come  in  Dispute 
here  it  might  have  a  very  ill  Effect  as  it  may  happen 
in  Respect  to  former  Acts  as  well  as  what  relates  to 
a  late  Act  pass'd  there  and  put  the  Colony  in  Con- 
fusion, which  no  doubt  the  Governor  was  sensible  of 
made  him  change  his  Mind  and  inasmuch  as  thou 
hast  the  Petition  still  by  thee  I  entreat  thee  to  keep 
it  till  thou  hast  his  Answer  otherwise  it  will  not  only 
affect  and  prejudice  the  Colony  in  General  but  even 
those  particular  Persons  themselves  who  joined  with 
the  Governor  in  it.  thy  Favour  herein  will  be  a 
great  Service  to  the  Colony  and  an  Obligation  on 

Thy  Friend 

Rich''  Partridge. 


RICHARD    PARTRmGE    TO    DEPUTY-GOVERNOR    WANTON. 

London  3?  mo.  the  3.  1732. 
My  ffr^.  John  Wanton 

In  my  last  to  thee  of  the  6  ult  I  gave  thee  some 
ace'  relating  to  the  passing  the  Sugar  BilP  in  the 
House  of  Commons  and  that  it  was  car^  up  to  the 
Lords  where  we  followd  it  and  petitiond  against  it, 
where  also  after  many  appointm'*  and  some  Hearings 
we  appeard  with  Council  for  the  last  time,  which  was 

1  See  note  on  p.  19. 


26  Correspondence  of  the 

the  25*!"  past.  I  think  the  Council  had  attended  for 
the  other  several  northern  Colonies  and  were  paid  5 
pounds  at  least,  who  were  Sergeant  Darnel/  Coun- 
cil"" Strange  "^  and  Rider,^  and  myself  for  the  Colonies 
I  represent,  the  2  first  Council  were  heard  at  the 
Bar  of  the  House  of  Lords  some  time  since,  and  the 
last  day  Rider  and  myself  only,  and  after  that  3  of 
our  witnesses  only  out  of  10  or  12  were  examind,  and 
then  we  were  ord*^  to  withdraw,  upon  w*"^  the  Lords 
adjournd  the  further  Consideration  of  the  affair  for  8 
days  and  before  the  time  came  about  put  it  off  again 
for  a  month  without  so  much  as  hearing  one  of  the 
Council  plead  on  the  other  side  in  favour  of  the  Bill, 
so  that  there  is  an  end  of  it  for  this  year. 

I  am  in  hopes  the  West  India  Gentlemen  now 
have  enough  of  it  that  they  will  scarce  give  us  any 
further  trouble  an  other  Sessions.  I  will  not  say  my 
appearing  as  Council  was  the  occasion  of  our  Suc- 
cess, but  this  I  beleive  none  will  deny  but  the  Lords 
gave  as  due  attention  to  it  as  to  any  of  the  Council 
that  went  before  and  that  after  that  day  would  hear 
no  more  of  it,  concluding  that  it  was  a  Bill  not  fitt  to 
pass,  but  I  am  told  that  it  is  intended  next  Sessions 
of  Parliam'  to  lay  a  duty  on  Foreign  Rum  and  Molas- 
ses imported  into  our  North"  Colonies  to  prevent 
w""^.   Esq   Oglethorpe  *  a  member   of   the   house  of 

1  Probably  Sir  John  Darnall,  a  successful  lawyer,  who  was  made  sergeant-at-law  in 
1 714,  and  knighted  in  1724.     He  died  in  1735. 

2  Sir  John  Strange  (1696-1754),  called  to  the  bar  in  1718,  King's  counsel  in  1736, 
solicitor-general  from  1 737-1 742,  and  master  of  the  rolls  and  member  of  the  privy 
council  in  1750.  Strange's  Reports  were  published  after  his  death  by  his  son.  Five 
editions  were  printed. 

8  Sir  Dudley  Ryder  (1691-1756),  made  solicitor-general  in  1733,  attorney-general  in 
1737,  and  lord  chief  justice  of  the  King's  Bench  in  1754. 
4  James  Oglethorpe,  member  for  Ilaslemere,  and  founder  of  the  colony  of  Georgia. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         27 

Commons  (with  whom  I  have  lately  had  a  pretty- 
deal  of  discourse  and  who  is  our  hearty  Friend) 
thinks  it  most  advisable  for  the  Northern  Colonies 
to  do  it  first  themselves,  but  this  must  be  left  to  your 
consideration  whether  you  will  do  it  or  try  our  Suc- 
cess again  in  the  opposition  of  Such  a  Bill  if  it 
Should  be  brought  into  the  House ;  Our  opposition 
in  the  Course  of  the  Affair  this  Sessions  was  attended 
with  the  more  difficulty  in  that  the  Ministry  w*  Sr 

R W ^    appeard    on   the   divission    in    the 

House  of  Commons  against  us,  and  Cap'  Hall  who 
was  a  good  Witness  for  us  last  Year  deserted  us 
and  was  drawn  over  to  the  side  of  the  West  India 
Gentlem"  against  us  and  indeed  we  were  once  very 
apprehensive  and  had  heard  the  Lords  intended  to 
pass  the  Bill  for  3  Years  and  that  the  West  Indians 
had  some  assurances  given  them  it  sho^,  but  these 
difficulties  great  as  they  appeard  we  have  at  length 
surmounted  and  I  think  I  may  venture  to  say  fairly 
beat  them  out  of  it.  the  Expense  has  been  pretty 
large  a  great  deale  more  than  last  year  but  is  now 
born  among  Six  Agents  of  us  on  our  side  so  that  my 
part  will  be  less  than  last  year.  I  must  pay  part  of 
Council  fees  at  the  House  of  Comons,  but  I  save  all 
that  at  the  Lords  —  for  I  employd  none,  yet  hope 
our  Colony  will  not  think  it  amiss  if  I  charge  some 
thing  of  that  article  for  myself. 

As  for  the  affair  of  the  Complaints  ag^*  Rh*^  Island, 
the  L'^^  of  Trade  have  referrd  the  papers  w'^*'  relate 
to  them  to  the  Attourney  and  Sollicif  General  for 

1  Sir  Robert  Walpole,  First  Lord  of  the  Treasury  and  leader  of  the  House  of  Com- 
mons. 


28  Correspondence  of  the 

their  opinion  ^  and  I  have  directed  my  Soil'  to  draw 
up  a  Case  and  attend  them  upon  it  and  who  must 
each  have  a  suitable  fee,  there  are  some  Queries  of 
Govern''  Jencks  w*"**  I  have  not  yet  got  a  Coppy  of, 
but  before  any  thing  be  done  the  attourny  General  is 
of  opinion  we  ought  to  have  them,  and  I  dont  think 
it  will  be  speedily  Issued,  tho'  it  may  be  attended 
with  Expenses  and  trouble,  but  my  diligence  shall 
not  be  wanting  to  serve  the  Colony  to  my  utmost, 
hopeing  after  all  nothing  will  come  of  it  in  prejudice 
of  our  Charter. 

I  am  with  due  respects  to  the  Gentlemen  of  the 
Council  and  House  of  Representatives 

Thy  faithfull  friend 

RiCH°  Partridge 

As  my  trouble  in  attending  and  serving  the  Colony 
Interest  is  considerable  I  will  referr  mySelf  to  them 
whether  they  will  judge  me  deserving  of  their  advan- 
cing [my]  Salary  or  not,  and  thy  good  offices  herein 
shall  be  gratefully  acknowledged.  R  P. 

To  John  Wanton  Esq 

Deputy  Governy  of    Rhoad   Island  and    Provi- 
dence Plantations 

1  See  note  to  letter  of  July  lo,  1732. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         29 


JOSEPH  JENCKS^   TO    THE    GOVERNOR,    COUNCIL,  AND    HOUSE 
OF   DEPUTIES. 

To  the  Hon^^f  the  Goif.  Council  and  house  of  Deputys 

Gen^.men 

I  being  Now  just  upon  removing  to  my  own  habi- 
tation, and  not  Expecting  ever  to  meet  with  any  of 
you  in  this  place  again  ^  do  ace*  it  my  duty  with  the 
greatest  regard  to  Take  my  Leve  of  you,  and  I  can 
truely  Say  it  is  my  hearty  desire  that  not  only  your- 
Selves  but  also  Such  others  as  may  Succeed  you  in 
the  Same  Station  you  are  Now  in,  May  concert  Such 
mesures  as  may  (with  the  blesing  of  him  that  rules 
and  governs  all  things)  prove  an  Expedient  to  pre- 
serve and  maintaine  the  Honour  Interest  and  inEsti- 
mable  privilidges  this  Colony  now  Injoys. 

And,  Gen*men,  I  further  desire  that  you  will  be 
pleased  to  appoint  Some  Sutable  persons  to  Receive 
the  Charter  and  Such  other  writings  as  are  now  in 
my  keeping  and  do  properly  belong  to  the  Colony. 

And  also  that  your  Honours  will  please  now  to 
order  what  you  See  cause  to  allow  me  for  my  Last 
years  Service.^  All  which  will  greatly  oblige  him 
who  is  Gen^men 

y""  Hon""^  very  hum^^^  Serv* 

J  Jencks 

Newp'^  may  4'?  1732 


1  After  five  years  of  service  as  governor,  Joseph  Jencks  incurred  the  displeasure  of 
the  Assembly  by  his  veto  of  a  paper  money  bill,  and  lost  the  next  election. 
'^  Jencks  was  required  to  reside  in  Newport  while  governor  of  the  colony. 
8  The  Assembly  voted  him  £300.     See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  IV.  470. 


30  Correspondence  of  the 

RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO   GOVERNOR   WILLIAM   WANTON,^ 

L0ND°  5^  mo.  or  July  lo.  1732 

Col".  Wanton 

Thine  and  the  Speakers  lett'  dated  the  17.  May 
tosrether  with  the  Inclosures  I  have  reed,  w'^''  with 
what  we  had  before  will  furnish  us  with  answers  to 
the  Complaints  ^  that  are  made  against  the  Colony  as 
much  as  is  necessary,  that  affair  lyes  yet  with  the 
Attourny  and  Soil!"  General  for  their  Opinion,  and 
there  I  am  apt  to  think  it  is  like  to  lay  for  some  time, 
tho'  the  Board  of  Trade  recomended  Expedition  to 
them,  and  before  ever  they  make  any  Report  I  ex- 
pect we  shall  have  due  notice  to  attend  (I  mean  the 
Attourny  and  Solicitor  General,)  thou  mayst  depend 
that  I,  with  my  Soliciter  will  do  our  utmost  in  vin- 
dicating the  Colony  and  asserting  their  Rights  and 
Privileges  and  hope  we  shall  be  able  to  maintain 
them,  tho'  it  will  be  attended  with  considerable  Ex- 
pence,  the  Lords  of  Trade  I  doubt  not  are  glad  of 
any  opportunity  to  lay  hold  off  an  advantage  against 
the  Charter  Governmen'^  that  if  possible  they  may 
be  resumd  to  the  Crown,  for  I  dont  take  them  to  be 
Friends  to  our  Northern  Colonies  at  all. 

Inclosed  I  now  send  thee  Copys  of  the  Complain- 
ants' Address  to  the  King  and  their  Representations 

1  For  an  account  of  the  Wanton  family,  see  p.  xxv  of  the  Introduction. 

2  A  Memorial  against  the  issue  of  bills  of  credit,  in  1731,  was  forwarded  to  the 
Lords  of  Trade,  and  petitions  were  sent  from  Governor  Jencks  and  from  the  inhabit- 
ants of  Rhode  Island  to  the  King.  The  matter  was  referred  to  Attorney-General 
Yorke  and  Solicitor-General  Talbot,  who  gave  (as  is  well  known)  the  opinion  that 
neither  the  governor  of  Rhode  Island  nor  the  King  had  power  to  annul  or  repeal  an 
act  of  the  General  Assembly.  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  IV.  457-461,  and  Arnold's  History  of 
the  State  of  Rhode  Island,  II.  loS. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         31 

to  the  Board  of  Trade,  w"*  as  I  remember  are  the 
very  individual  I  had  from  the  Offices  here  and  of 
w**  I  sent  Copys  before  to  the  Deputy  Govf  except 
only  the  names  were  then  not  added ;  ^  w*^*"  I  omitted 
hoping  the  matter  might  have  been  accomodated 
among  yo''Selves  I  am  glad  the  late  Gov""  Jencks 
has  ord'^  all  prosecution  in  his  name  to  cease  I  hope 
it  will  weaken  their  Cause  and  I  shall  not  faile  to 
make  the  proper  use  of  it.  T  :  Sanford  has  got  the 
s*^  Jencks  letter  and  I  doubt  not  but  he  will  duely 
observe  it. 

Inclosed  is  my  ace*  with  the  Colony  the  Ballance 
where  of  being  ^i  i  i  10.  in  their  favour,  so  that  there 
will  be  a  further  necessity  of  making  me  remittance 
w'^''  I  doubt  not  off :  and  in  the  mean  time  no  mony 
shall  be  wanting  necessary  in  our  Cause  — :  I  could 
not  charge  New  Jersie  with  their  proportion  of  Ex- 
pence  this  year  against  the  Sugar  Bill  having  never 
yet  their  perticular  orders  about  that  Affair  neither 
have  they  yet  paid  me  what  I  was  out  of  Pocket 
for  their  Part  last  year,  the  Ball''^  of  their  last  ace* 
being  upw"^'  of  Two  hun"?  pounds  Sterl  due  to  me  so 
I  hope  yo'  Colony  will  not  think  much  of  my  not 
bringing  in  the  Jersies  this  Year  as  last :  I  believe  it 
cost  N.  York  People  this  Sessions  in  the  very  same 
Affair  upw^ards  of  ^200  St!  and   New  Engl'^  near 

I  am  with  due  respects  to  thy  Self  and  the  Gentle- 
men of  the  Council  and  House  of  Representatives 

Their  FaithfuU  friend 

Rich""  Partridge 

1  See  letter  of  February  4,  173^. 


32  Correspondence  of  the 

THE   COMMISSIONERS    OF    CUSTOMS   TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

The  Bearer  hereof  John  Peagrum^  Esq.  being  De- 
puted by  Us  pursuant  to  a  Warrant  from  the  Lords 
Commiss?  of  the  Treasury  to  be  Surveyor  General 
of  the  Northern  part  of  the  Continent  of  America 
in  the  room  of  Devereux  Bacon  deceased.  And  he 
having  received  Instructions  from  Us  for  the  more 
effectual  putting  in  Execution  the  Laws  relating  to 
Trade  and  Navigation,  We  desire  you  will  please  to 
be  assisting  with  your  Authority  to  the  s'!  Peagrum 
and  the  other  Officers  of  the  Customs  under  his  In- 
spection as  they  shall  have  occasion  to  apply  to  you, 
and  also  that  you  will  strictly  command  all  Officers 
and  Ministers  imployed  under  you  to  be  assisting  to 
them  in  putting  in  Execution  the  Laws  against  ille- 
gal Trade  that  the  Service  under  our  Managem'  may 
be  effectually  carryed  on.     We  are  S! 

Your  most  humble  Serv'f 

Rob"^  Baylis 
J  Stanley 
Charles  Peers 
J.  Evelyn 
Custom  11°  London  12  Aug'*  1732. 

To  His  Excellency  the  Governour  and  Com- 
mander in  chief  of  His  Majesty'  Colony  of 
Rhoad  Island. 

1  Pegram  held  the  office  of  Surveyor-General  of  Customs  until  the  latter  part  of 
1742.  Several  letters  addressed  by  him  to  the  governor  and  collector  of  Rhode  Island 
respecting  the  cargo  of  a  French  ship  driven  into  Newport  by  bad  weather  are  printed 
in  the  Mass.  Hist.  Soc.  Coll.,  6  ser.  IX.  210. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island          33 


GOVERNOR   WANTON   TO    THE   SPEAKER   AND   GENTLEMEN    OF 
THE    LOWER    HOUSE. 

Its  my  oppinion  that  there  be  a  Committy  of  both 
Houses  consisting  of  two  members  each  w'*"  myself 
to  inspect  into  and  project  something  that  may  be 
for  the  reUef  of  the  Government  as  to  these  debts  ^ 
which  it  is  now  unhappy  under,  also  to  put  a  stop 
that  no  further  incouragement  be  given  to  the  New 
London  Society  '^  as  to  therre  Bills  passing  with  us. 
also  its  my  Oppinion  that  You  finish  all  affairs  that 
now  comes  before  you  and  not  to  refer  to  May  and 
June,  those  times  being  in  the  height  of  business  in 
the  Country  and  not  possible  then  to  dispatch  any 
affairs,  the  business  now  before  You  is  of  Moment 
and  must  be  dispatched,  let  no  trifling  excuse  pre- 
vail w*^  You  and  its  my  Oppinion  that  you  adjurn  till 
Munday. 

W¥  Wanton  Gov' 

27'?  Janu^  I73f. 


1  There  seems  to  have  been  in  circulation  at  the  time  over  £120,000  of  depreciated 
paper  currency.  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  IV.  457-461,  for  documents  relating  to  the 
issue  of  bills  of  credit. 

2  The  New  London  Society  united  for  Trade  and  Commerce  was  incorporated  in 
May,  1732,  by  the  General  Assembly  of  Connecticut  {Col.  Rec.  of  Conn..,  VII.  390),  as  a 
joint-stock  company  for  trading  purposes.  The  charter  of  incorporation  was  repealed 
by  the  Connecticut  Assembly  in  a  special  session  of  February  15,  173I,  on  the  ground 
of  "  their  presuming  to  strike  and  emit  a  certain  number  of  bills  of  credit  on  their  own 
society,  whereby  many  honest  people  are  in  danger  of  being  defrauded,  and  the  peace 
of  this  government  subverted."  Ibid..,  VII.  419.  Over  £9500  of  these  bills  were  called 
in  and  burned  by  order  of  the  Assembly,  and  the  issues  to  the  amount  of  £15,000  were 
redeemed  by  the  colony.     Ibid.,  VII.  453,  454. 


34  Correspondence  of  the 

RICHARD   PARTRIDGE   TO   GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

LOND"!  i2mo.  or  Feby  the  281"  i73f. 

Col".  Wanton 

I  writt  thee  my  last  per  Capt.  Scutt  of  the  23.  ult 
via  Boston,  since  which  I  have  none  of  thy  favours, 
this  now  comes  to  acquaint  thee  that  thro  the  rest- 
lessness of  the  West  India  Gentlemen  (who  have 
the  ministry  on  their  side),  the  House  of  Commons 
have  lately  come  into  Resolutions  to  impose  a  duty^ 
upon  Foreign  Sug'  molases  and  Rum  that  shall  be 
Imported  into  our  Plantations,  agreeable  to  the  Votes 
here  inclosed,  and  it  is  generaly  thought  the  Bill  will 
pass ;  but  I  intend  if  I  can  be  admitted,  vigorously 
to  oppose  it  at  the  Bar  of  the  House  first :  for  I  am 
of  opinion  if  such  a  Law  take  place,  (besides  the 
present  Injury  it  will  do),  it  will  be  rather  worse  in 
the  consequence  of  it  than  the  Bill  of  prohibition 
last  year,  because  of  the  levying  a  Subsidy  upon  a 
Free  People  without  their  Knowledg  ag'*  their  con- 
sent, who  have  the  libertys  and  Immunitys  granted 
them  [of]  Natural  born  Subjects,  and  when  they 
have  enough  to  do  to  raise  Taxes  for  their  own 
Support ;  besides  it  may  be  drawn  into  a  President 
for  the  future,  for  by  the  same  Rule  that  a  Brit- 
ish Parliam'  imposes  a  duty  on  the  Kings  Subjects 
abroad,  who  have  no  Representatives  in  the  State 
here,  they  may  from  4/  advance  to  20/  —  to  ^100, 
on  different  things,  and  so  ad  infinitem,  which  is  an 
Infringm^  on  Liberty  and  Property  and  as  I  appre- 
hend a  violation  of  the  Right  of  the  Subject,     how 

1  See  note  on  p.  ig. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island          35 

the  Bill  will  succeed  I  cannot  yet  say,  perhaps  I 
may  differ  in  my  Sentiments  from  most  other  People 
here :  but  I  shall  not  faile  to  advise  thee  further 
about  it  hereafter. 

As  to  the  other  affair^  relating  to  our  Colony  here 
it  lyes  yet  dormant  as  it  has  done  for  some  time.  I 
am  w*^  due  respects  to  thy  self  and  the  Gent"  of  the 
Council  and  Representatives 

Thy  faithful!  friend 

Rich"  Partridge 

To  Col"  William  Wanton 

Govern''  of  Rhoad  Island  and  Providence  Plan- 
tations 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO   GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

I  mo.  the  3.  i73|. 
Gov"".    Wanton 

It  is  realy  a  hardship  upon  me  that  I  must  loose 
part  of  my  disburstm*^  when  I  appear  in  opposition 
to  what  (as  I  apprehend  is)  afoot  here  Injurious  to 
the  Plantations  at  any  time.  N.  Jersie  people  owe 
me  already  ^300.  st^  and  I  can  get  no  money  from 
them  for  a  considerable  time  past :  so  that  now  I 
must  drop  their  Name  in  my  petition  and  not  make 
use  of  it  at  all  or  else  lye  still  and  let  the  Parliam*  do 
as  they  think  best  without  my  intermedling,  w'=^  yet 
I  believe  RM  Island  Colony  w'*  not  like  neither,  so 
that  it  is  some  difficulty  upon  me. 

If  therefore  they  w"^  allow  me  one  hund"^  pounds  a 
ye'  Sterl.  for  Seven  Years  I  will  be  content  with  it 

1  See  note  on  p.  30. 


36  Correspondence  of  the 

for  my  Salary  and  also  pay  all  disburstm"  Solicit"  and 
Council  Fees  for  Rh'?  Island  Colony  for  that  time  out 
of  it,  which  I  pray  thou  wouldst  propose  if  thou  judgst 
it  proper. 

RiCH°  Partridge 


GOVERNOR  BELCHER  1  TO  GOVERNOR  WANTON. 

Sir, 

I  received  the  Favour  of  Yours  inclosing  the  Act^ 
of  your  Assembly  respecting  the  Gore,^  which  I  com- 
municated to  this  Assembly  in  their  late  Session, 
And  with  this  the  Secretary  covers  the  Act  past  here, 
agreeable  to  yours,  and  I  shall  be  glad  this  Matter 
may  be  amicably  Compromis'd. 

Inclosed  Your  Honour  has  two  Letters  just  as  I 
received  them  from  my  Brother  Partridge. 
I  wish  you  your  Health,  and  am 
Hono^.''^  Sir, 

Your  most  humble  Servant 

J  Belcher 

Boston  April  30 :  1733. 

Gov^  Wanton 


1  Governor  Jonathan  Belcher  of  Massachusetts  and  New  Hampshire  from  1 730  to 
1 741,  and  later  governor  of  New  Jersey.  He  was  a  tenacious  upholder  of  the  royal 
prerogative  in  the  much-vexed  questions  of  supplies,  governor's  salary,  and  the  emis- 
sions of  bills  of  credit.  A  sketch  of  his  life  is  given  in  the  preface  to  the  Belcher 
Papers,  Mass.  Hist.  Soc.  Coll.,  6  ser.  VI. 

2  The  Act  referred  to  authorized  commissioners  to  determine  the  boundary  between 
Massachusetts  and  Rhode  Island.    Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  IV.  4S2. 

3  The  term  "  gore  "  signifies  a  small  strip  or  tract  of  land  lying  between  larger 
divisions. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         37 


GOVERNOR  WANTON  TO  THE  GENERAL  ASSEMBLY. 

Gentlemen  of  the  Council  and  House  of  Deputies 

I  am  now  to  acquaint  you  that  the  Sudden  occa- 
sion of  my  calling  this  Assembly  sooner  then  the 
next  Adjournement,  is  on  the  Account  of  the  Death 
of  Abraham  Borden  Esqf  late  General  Treasurer, 
And  his  Decease  calling  for  the  speedey  Nomination 
and  appointment  of  A  Suitable  Person  to  Succeed 
him  and  take  Care  of  the  General  Treasury,  which 
can't  be  left  without  with  Safety,  Renders  me  under 
an  Obligation  to  call  this  unexpected  Convention. 

And  Since  we  are  now  met  I  think  it  highly 
necessary  to  Represent  to  you  that  Fort  George^ 
Should  be  supplied  with  a  Suitable  number  of  Can- 
non as  well  for  the  Defence  and  Safeguard  of  this  Col- 
ony as  the  Security  of  Navigation,  w'''*  will  be  of  great 
Credit  and  Advantage  to  both,  The  Consideration 
whereof  I  heartily  Recommend  to  this  Assembly, 
and  hope  they'l  thinke  it  proper  to  pass  an  Act,  in 
Order  to  make  a  Suitable  provision  for  the  Same 

It  has  been  the  Custom  for  the  Free  Men  of  each 
Town  of  this  Colony  to  choose  Deputies  to  Repre- 
sent them  in  the  General  Assembly  twice  a  Year  and 
the  Choice  in  all  the  Towns  at  Different  Times,  w'^^ 
gives  great  Room  for  111  Designing  Persons  to  Create 
Divisions  and  Make  parties  amongst  the  Inhabitants 
by  goeing  from  Town  to  Town  to  be  present  at  each 
meeting  in  Order  by  their  Subtill  contrivances  to  get 

1  On  Goat  Island,  at  the  mouth  of  Newport  harbor.  In  the  session  of  July,  1733, 
the  Assembly  voted  an  appropriation  of  £4000  to  procure  "  cannon,  carriages  and 
other  necessaries,  for  Fort  George,"     CoL  Rec.  of  R.  I.,  IV.  487. 


38  Correspondence  of  the 

in  Such  Persons  as  will  suit  their  Turn's,  Wherefore 
tis  my  opinion  and  I  Recommend  the  Same  to  this 
Present  Assembly  for  preventing  the  like  for  the 
Future  that  they  will  seriously  consider  this  Matter, 
and  pass  an  Act  ^  that  the  Deputies  shall  be  Chosen 
but  once  a  Yeare  hereafter  and  In  each  Town  of 
this  Colony  on  one  and  the  Same  Day,  in  Such 
convenient  Time  before  the  General  Election  as  they 
Shall  thinke  most  Suitable  by  which  mean's  an  As- 
sembly will  always  be  kept  in  in  being  and  Ready 
to  be  called  on  any  Emergent  Occasion  without 
making  a  New  Choice  and  is  no  wise  contrary  to  the 
Terms  of  the  Charter 

These  things  and  what  others  may  be  laid  be- 
fore you  I  make  no  Scruple  of  your  best  En- 
deavours for  the  publick  Good.  And  you  may 
Depend  on  a  Readiness  in  me  to  joyn  with  you 
for  that  purpose  being  always  ready  and  Willing 
to  Shew  how  much  I  am  the  Governments  and 
Your  Faithfull  Freind, 

W^  Wanton 

[April  or  May,  1733.] 


WILLIAM   JENCKS  ^   TO    DEPUTY-GOVERNOR    WANTON. 

Providenxe  July  2°.*  1733 

Honourable  S'' : 

Since  I  Saw  you  at  Newport  I  Spake  with  Cap* 
Jn°  Foster  of  Attleburough  one  of  the  Men  appointed 

1  Such  an  Act  was  passed  by  the  Assembly  held  the  second  Monday  in  June,  1733. 
Col.  Rcc.  ofR.  /.,  IV.  484. 

2  One  of  the  committee  appointed  by  the  General  Assembly  to  attend  the  commis- 
sion at  New  London  "to  settle  the  boundary  line  of  the  gore  of  land  adjoining  to 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         39 

by  the  Province  to  go  to  New  London  and  he  In- 
forms me  that  they  have  appointed  nine  Gentlemen 
to  Go  to  New  London  to  oppen  their  Cause.  S'  I 
Judge  it  Necessary  to  ad  Two  or  three  more  to  our 
Committy  Least  They  Should  Drown  us  with  a  Great 
Noise  and  I  Should  be  very  Glad  if  Mr  Walton  and 
Coll.  Abbot  Might  be  added  and  Such  others  as  the 
Court  may  Think  Proper.  Sy  I  have  appointed  Coll: 
Abbot  to  Run  a  Line  from  Sowamset  as  far  North 
as  Pawtucket  falls  and  to  Draw  a  Map  of  the  Same 
and  for  that  Reason  and  Sundry  others  I  think  it 
Needfull  for  them  to  be  there  This  Being  what  offers 
as  Needfull  from  your  Humble  Servant 

William  Jencks 

To  Coll.  Jn9  Wanton  Esq 

Lieutent  Governour,  In  Newport 


THE   COMMISSIONERS    OF    CUSTOMS    TO    JOHN    PEAGRUM. 

M''  Peagrum 

Haveing,  since  our  Secrete  Letter  of  the  4  July  last 
transmitting  you  an  Act  *  passed  the  last  Session  of 
Parliament  for  the  better  securing  and  Encouraging 
the  Trade  of  his  Majestys  Sugar  Colonys  in  America, 
receiv'd  directions  from  the  Right  Hon^!^  the  Lords 
Commiss"  of  his  Majest^.'  Treasury,  for  appointing 
Officers  (if  there  be  Occasion)  at  the  Several  Ports  in 


Attleborough  with  the  Commissioners  appointed  by  Massachusetts."     Col,  Rec.  of 
R.  1.,  IV.  484. 

1  The  Act  of  1733.     See  note  on  p.  19. 


40  Correspondence  of  the 

the  Plantations  to  Manage,  levy,  Collect  and  account 
for  the  Dutys  Which  by  the  said  Act  are  Laid  upon 
all  Rum  Mellosses  or  Sugars  of  Forreign  plantations 
when  Imported  into  any  British  Colony  or  Planta- 
tion. We  direct  you  if  you  find  there  is  an  Imediate 
occasion  for  appointing  any  Officers  at  any  of  the 
Ports  under  your  Survey  for  carrying  on  the  Service 
for  the  Present,  to  appoint  such  propper  Persons  as 
are  absolutely  necessary  for  that  Purpose,  and  repre- 
sent to  us  what  additional  Number  of  Officers  at  Each 
place  will  be  really  wanted  to  perform  the  duty  for  the 
Future  and  at  what  allowances,  takeing  care  to  Use 
all  possible  good  Husbandry.  And  if  you  Appoint 
any  Officers  you  are  to  take  care  they  be  under  Oath 
and  Security  and  acquaint  us  with  their  Names, 
Qualifications,  and  the  Stations  you  have  assign'd 
them,  and  what  Salarys  you  think  it  will  be  propper 
to  allow  them  for  our  further  consideration  We  are 

Your  Loveing  Friends 

Charles  Peers 
H  Hale 
Robert  Baylis 
John  Hill 
Custom  H?   London  i  Sept.  1733. 


CHARLES    CARKESSE   TO  JOHN    PEAGRUM. 

Sir 

The  Commiss?  having  in  their  Letter  of  the  ist  of 
last  Month  acquainted  you  that  they  had  recieved 
Directions  from  the  Lords  of  the  Treasury  for  ap- 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         41 

pointing  Officers  (if  there  be  occasion)  at  the  Several 
Ports  in  the  Plantations  to  manage  and  Collect  the 
Duties  laid  by  an  Act  of  the  last  Session  upon 
Sugar  ^  &c.  And  directed  you  in  pursuance  thereof 
to  appoint  such  Officers  as  you  found  absolutely 
necessary  for  that  purpose  at  the  several  Ports  under 
your  Survey.  And  Mr  Robert  Robinson  who  for- 
merly acted  as  Collector  of  Salem  and  Marblehead 
in  New  England  having  sustain'd  several  vexatious 
Suits  and  Suffer'd  very  much  by  some  Seizures  made 
by  him  in  the  Execution  of  his  duty :  I  am  directed 
by  the  Commiss?  to  recommend  him  to  you  to  be 
appointed  one  of  the  additional  Officers  at  some  of 
the  Ports  under  your  Survey  if  you  find  there  is  a 
necessity  for  appointing  any. 

And  you  are  to  take  care  in  that  case  that  Mt 
Robinson  be  appointed  to  such  a  Station  as  shall  be 
Suitable  to  his  qualifications  and  abilities  which  I 
have  in  Command  to  signify  to  you  and  am  Sir 
Your  most  humble  Serv* 

Cha:  Carkesse  Secry. 

Custom  H?  London  4'?'  October  1733. 

To  John  Peagrum  Esq^  Survey!"  General  of  the 
Northern  part  of  the  Continent  of  America. 


GOVERNOR    WANTON    TO   JOSIAH    WILLARD. 

I  Receivf  your's  per  Express,  by  Order  of  the  Gen- 
eral Assembly  of  the  Province  Respecting  a  Late 
Emission  of  Bills  of  Creditt  in  this  Government. 

1  The  Sugar  Act  of  1733.     See  note  on  p.  19. 


42  Correspondence  of  the 

The  Genl  Assembly  of  this  Colony  did  at  their 
Sessions  held  last  July,  pass  an  Act  for  the  Emit- 
ting One  hundred  thousand  pounds  upon  Loan,  at 
5  per  O  per  Annum,  on  Land  Security  of  Double 
the  Value  for  a  Medium  of  Trade  (as  former  Banks 
have  been  Emitted)  and  the  Interest  thereoff  to  be 
appropriated  towards  Discharging  the  Annual  Debts 
of  the  Gov"'' 

I  have  Ordered  the  Sect^  to  make  out  a  Copy 
of  the  Act  for  your  further  Satisfaction,  And  I  do 
assure  the  Gen!  Assembly  of  the  Province  we  had  an 
Especiale  Regard  for  the  good  and  Welfare  of  the 
Publick  In  said  Emission.  And  I  hope  that  the 
Gen!  Court  of  the  Province  will  take  Due  Care  that 
Trade  and  Business  may  not  be  Injured  by  a  private 
Emission,  now  coming  out  without  their  Sanction, 
as  I  am  Informed. 

I  am  with  great  Respect  to  the  Genl  Court.  ST 

Your  very  huml^  Serv! 

W^^  Wanton 

Newport  26'.''  Octob.  1733 

To  JosiAH  WiLLARD  Esq.  ScctT  of  the  Province 
Boston. 


JOHN    PEAGRUM    TO    GOVERNOR    WANTON. 

Sir 

I  have  the  faviour  of  Yo'  Hon''  letter  of  the  4*^ 
Instant  That  M:  Robinson  had  Presented  a  Depu- 
tation from  me  to  Act  at  Yo""  Port  as  Searcher  and 

1  Digest  0/ 1744,  p.  172. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         43 

landwaiter  w'='*  Office  I  apprehend  Necessary  at  Y' 
Port  tho'.  I  am  So  unhappy  to  Differ  in  Opinion  w*^ 
Yo""  Hon*"  and  Council  but  as  the  Comm''^  has  thot 
fit  to  leave  it  to  my  Judgm*  in  My  Instruction  to 
appoint  Such  Officers  as  I  Shall  from  time  to  time 
think  Necessary  acquainting  them  of  the  Same  (w''.'* 
I  have  done  allready.)  must  Beg  leave  to  insist  that 
Mr  Robinson  be  Sworn  according.  Tho'  I  am  Very 
Sory  any  thing  I  Should  do  Should  Not  Meet  w*^ 
Yo'  Hon"  Approbation  but  as  I  think  it  my  Duty 
and  for  the  Service  of  His  Maj'^^  Revenue  I  have 
Appointed  one  at  this  Port  at  Salem  and  New  Lon- 
don at  New  York  there  was  one  before,  and  if  I 
think  it  Necessary  Shall  Appoint  more  or  I  Should 
Not  Act  Agreeable  to  my  Instructions. 

I  have  here  Inclosed  you  an  Article  of  Instruction 
and  likewise  an  Article  of  Instruction  from  his  Maj'^ 
to  the  Several  Govern''*  where  I  have  the  Hon'  of 
Being  Surveyor  Gen"  where  his  Maj*^  has  forbid  any 
Governour  to  interfere  w*''  the  Powers  and  Authority 
given  by  the  Comm""*  of  the  Custom  to  the  Surveyor 
Gen"^- 

Mf  Robinson  Bro*  me  a  letter  likewise  where  the 
Comm'^  recommended  him  to  be  Employ'd  In  Some 
Part  of  my  District  a  Copy  of  which  he  has  and  will 
Show  Yo""  Hon''  if  you  incline  to  See  it.  I  Shall  be 
Very  Sory  if  the  revenue  Should  Suffer  for  want  of 
his  Being  Sworn  but  if  you  will  Not  Suffer  Officers 
to  do  their  duty  it  Do's  Not  lye  at  my  Door  and 
forgive  me  in  representing  of  it  to  the  Comm''^  and 


44  Correspondence  of  the 

the  Lords  of  the  Treasury.     Please  to  favour  w*!'  Yo' 
Answer  and  Yo" 

Oblege  Yo^  Hon^^  Most  Obed'  Humble  SV 

Jn  Peagrum 

Boston  7  Jan='  173I. 

To  the  Hon^^''  Wm  Wanton  Esq' 


INSTRUCTIONS    TO  JOHN    PEAGRUM,^ 

His  Majesty  having  by  an  Article  in  the  Instruc- 
tions given  to  the  Governours  in  the  Plantations 
Explain'd  the  Power  they  have  in  relation  to  the 
Officers  of  the  Customs  Enclosed,  we  send  you  Copy 
thereof  for  your  Government  in  Giving  the  Officers 
under  your  Inspections  such  Advice  and  Assistance 
as  the  service  shall  require  —  and  if  you  Observe  any 
of  the  Governours  in  the  Plantations  neglect  Com- 
plying with  His  Majestys  Pleasure  signified  therein 
you  are  to  Represent  the  Case  specially  to  us  and 
lay  before  us  Affidavit  of  the  facts  for  our  further 
directions. 

And  Whereas  the  Surveyors  General  of  Our  Cus- 
toms in  Our  Plantations  are  Impowered  in  Case  of 
the  Vacancy  of  any  of  our  Officers  of  the  Customs 
by  Death  removal  or  otherwise  to  Appoint  other 
Persons  to  Execute  such  Offices  untill  they  Receive 
further  directions  from  Our  Comm"^  of  our  Treasury 
or  our  high  Treasurer  or  Comm".^  of  our  Customs  for 

i  Enclosed  in  Peagrum's  letter  to  Governor  Wanton,  of  January  7. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         45 

the  time  being,  but  in  regard  the  Districts  of  the  said 
Surveyors  Gen"  are  very  Extensive  and  that  they  are 
required  at  proper  times  to  visit  the  Officers  in  the 
several  GovermV  under  their  Inspection  and  that  it 
might  happen  that  some  of  the  Officers  of  our  Cus- 
toms in  Our  Province  of may  Die  in  the  time 

that  Surveyor  General  is  Absent  in  some  Distant 
part  of  his  District  so  that  he  Cannot  receive  Advice 
of  such  officers  Death  within  a  reasonable  time  and 
thereby  make  Provision  for  Caryin  on  the  Service  by 
Appointing  some  other  Person  in  the  room  of  the 
Officer  who  may  happen  to  Die,  therefore  that  there 
may  be  no  Delay  Given  on  that  Occasion  to  the  Mas- 
ters of  Ships  or  Merchants  in  there  Dispatches,  It 
is  our  further  will  and  Pleasure  in  Case  of  such 
absence  of  the  Surveyor  General,  or  if  he  should 
happen  to  Die  and  in  such  Cases  that  you  upon  the 
Death  of  any  Collector  of  our  Customs  within  that 
our  Province 

Shall  make  Choice  of  a  Person  of  known  Loyalty, 
Experience,  Diligence  and  Fidelity,  to  be  Employ'd 
in  Such  Collectors  Room  for  the  purposes  aforesaid 
untill  the  Surveyor  General  of  Our  Customs  shall  be 
advised  thereof  and  Appoint  another  to  succeed  in 
their  Places  or  that  further  Directions  shall  be  given 
therein  by  our  Comm"'  of  our  treasury  or  our  high 
Treasurer  or  by  the  Comm"^  of  our  Customs  for  the 
time  being  which  shall  be  signified  taking  Care  that 
you  do  not  under  pretence  of  this  Instruction  Inter- 
fere with  the  Powers  and  authorities  Given  by  the 
Comm".'  of  our  Customs  to  the  said  Surveyors  Gen- 
eral when  they  are  able  to  put  the  same  in  Execution. 


46  Correspondence  of  the 


JOHN    PEAGRUM    TO   GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

Sr. 

I  have  to  Ask  Pardon  for  a  Mestake  my  Clerk 
made  in  a  letter  Should  have  been  Sent  you  the 
f^  Instantt.  I  can*  tell  what  Paper  he  inclosed  the 
Articles  In  w^l'out  it  was  Some  looss  Draughts 

for  I  found  the  letter  I  Design  [ed]  amongest  the 
Papers  in  my  Office,    w''^  I  have  here  Sent  you 

Yesterday  arrived  Cap*  Wingfield  from  London 
and  I  reed  a  letter  from  the  Secretary  to  the  Cus- 
toms that  the  Lords  of  the  Treasury  had  appointed 
me  to  Put  in  what  Necessary  Officers  I  Should  think 
Proper  (in  my  District)  and  the  Bearer  w''.''  came  w"" 
Cap'  Wingfield  was  recomend'^  to  be  Employ 'd.  I 
understand  by  Mr  Kay^  M'  Robinson  has  not  Got 
Security  and  he  can*  be  Employ[d]  without.  I  Shall 
take  it  a  faviour  you"  return  w*  Cover'd  the  Articles 
and  your  Answer  whether  you  will  Swear  an  Officer 
in  or  Not  and  yo"  very  Much  Oblige 

Yo""  most  Humble  Se* 

Jn  Peagrum 
Boston,  i\  Jan'  173! 

To  the  Hon'''^  W^^  Wanton  Esq! 


RICHARD   PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR   WILLIAM   WANTON. 

LoND?  12  m?  or  feb.  4. 1 73f . 
Col".    Wanton 

My  last  to  thee  was  of  the  5 :  S^*'  last  per  Capl 

Wingfield,  w*'''  hope  thou  hast  reed  since  which  I 

1  Collector  Nathaniel  Kay,  appointed  by  the  Commissioners  of  Customs,  at  London. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island          47 

have  none  from  thee  on  the  Colonys  ace*.  I  sent 
thee  per  Cap*  Draper  20  MeditV  passes  w^^  I  obtaind 
of  the  Lords  of  the  Admiralty  the  charge  thereof  for 
the  Instructions  &c  cost  me  £2.  8.  3. 

I  have  at  length  obtaind  from  the  Plantation 
OfEce  (w''''  comes  herewith)  a  Copy  of  the  Lords  of 
Trades  Report  to  the  King  respecting  the  Com- 
plaints against  the  Colony  in  1732^  which  I  take  to  be 
exactly  conformable  to  the  opinion  of  the  Attourney 
and  Solicitr  General  which  I  sent  thee  some  time 
since  ;  and  in  as  much  as  no  provision  was  made  in 
the  Charter  whereby  the  Crown  might  interfere  in 
relation  to  the  Laws  so  as  they  be  not  repugnant  to 
the  Laws  of  England,  the  matter  of  the  s"^  Complaints 
lyes  dormant  nothing  being  to  be  done  therein  by  the 
King :  and  I  am  informd  it  is  most  prudent  for  me 
to  let  them  remain  so  rather  than  to  make  any  Stirr 
in  it. 

a  Motion  has  been  lately  made  in  the  House  of 
Lords  for  putting  down  the  Iron  Furnaces'^  in  the 
Plantations  the  matter  whereof  was  referrd  to  a 
Committee  accordingly. 

I  hope  thy  next  will  bring  me  some  encouraging 
account  of  the  Colonys  doing  something  towards 
advancing  my  Salary. 

As  for  publick  news  I  referr  thee  to  the  inclosed 
prints :  we  continue  yet  in  a  State  of  tranquility  but 

1  See  note  to  letter  of  July  lo,  i>32. 

2  A  Representation  of  the  Lords  of  Trade  to  the  House  of  Commons  on  the  manu- 
factures of  the  colonies,  of  February  15, 173^,  states  that  the  Governor  of  Rhode  Island 
"  informs  us,  That  there  are  Iron  Mines  there,  but  not  a  4th  Part  Iron  enough  to  serve 
their  own  Use ;  but  he  takes  no  Notice  of  any  Sort  of  Manufacture  set  up  there." 
Historical  Register,  XVIIl.  47  (London,  1733). 


48  Correspondence  of  the 

know  not  how  long  it  will  last.  I  am  with  kind  re- 
spects to  thy  self  the  Gent°  of  the  Council  and  House 
of  Representatives 

Thy  faithfull  friend 

RiCH^  Partridge 

To  William  Wanton  Esq 

Governf  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plan- 
tations. 


GOVERNOR   BELCHER  TO  THE   GOVERNOR   OF   RHODE   ISLAND. 

Sir, 

I  am  sorry  I  have  Occasion  to  give  Your  Honour 
any  new  Trouble  upon  the  Matters  in  Difference 
between  the  People  in  your  Governm*  and  ours 
(before  you  have  answered  our  last  Letter)  and  espe- 
cially to  complain  to  you  of  an  Act  of  such  Violence 
and  Barbarity  as  exceeds  every  thing  that  has  yet 
been  done  or  even  attempted  by  any  of  your  People  : 
The  Actors  of  which  I  am  perswaded,  you  will  think, 
ought  not  to  escape  with  Impunity.  You  will  see  by 
the  inclosed  Declaration,  that  one  Jonathan  Draper 
an  Under  Sheriff  of  the  County  of  Suffolk  within 
this  Province,  at  his  own  House,  which  was  never 
pretended  to  ly  within  the  Governm*  of  Rhoad  Island, 
was  in  the  Night  Time  assaulted  by  three  Ruffians 
of  your  Colony ;  his  House  broken  open,  he  beaten 
with  Clubs  in  a  most  inhuman  Manner  to  the  Hazard 
of  his  Life,  drag'd  out  of  his  House  by  the  Hair  of 
the  Head,  and  carried  off  as  a  Prisoner,  And  all  for 
Doing  the  Duty  of  his  Office,  and  executing  a  law- 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         49 

ful  Warrant ;  which  he  could  not  have  refused  with- 
out great  Unfaithfulness  and  Incurring  considerable 
Loss  and  Damage.  This  being  an  Outrage  not  to  be 
parallel'd  in  any  regular  Governm*  and  a  Violation 
of  the  Laws  of  all  humane  Society,  and  committed 
within  the  Jurisdiction  of  this  Governm!  where  the 
Matter  ought  to  be  judicially  inquired  into  ;  I  do 
now  desire  and  demand  of  Your  Honour  and  the 
Governm*  of  Rhoad  Island,  That  you  deliver  up  to 
Justice  the  Authors  of  this  Villany ;  viz,  Hezediah 
Comestock,^  Samuel  Staples  and  Alexander  Gowdy, 
that  they  may  be  proceeded  against  in  the  Courts  of 
Law  in  the  County  of  Suffolk  where  the  Facts  were 
committed.  I  desire  you  would  send  me  an  Answer 
as  soon  as  may  be,  That  I  may  the  better  judge  what 
further  Methods  are  to  be  taken  in  the  Case.  There 
are  other  Proofs  of  the  Matters  of  Fact  contained  in 
this  Declaration,  but  they  cannot  be  presently  had ; 
But,  as  soon  as  they  come  to  Hand,  I  shall  send  you 
Copies,  if  there  be  any  Need  of  them. 
I  am 
Sir, 
Your  Honours  very  humble  Serv! 

J.  Belcher 

Boston,  March  5,  173I. 

1  See  note  on  p.  59. 


50  Correspondence  of  the 

DEPOSITION    OF   JONATHAN    DRAPER.* 

To  his  Excellency  Jonathan  Belcher  Esq"".  Captain 
General  and  Gover^iour  in  Cheif  in  and  over  His 
Majestys  Province  of  the  Massachusets  bay  and 
to  the  hono^^f  His  Majestys  Council  For  the  said 
Province. 

The  Declaration  of  Jonathan  Draper  of  Belling- 
ham  in  the  County  of  Suffolk  and  one  of  the  Deputy 
Sheriffs  within  the  said  County : 

The  said  Draper  saith,  That  on  the  third  day  of 
March  instant  being  the  Lords  day  in  the  Evening 
there  came  to  the  Dwellinghouse  of  the  sf  Draper 
one  Hezediah  Comestockof  Smithfield  in  the  Colony 
of  Rhode  Island  husbandman  who  knocked  at  the 
door  of  sf  house,  when  the  said  Draper  asked  who  is 
there ;  the  said  Comestock  said  a  Friend,  then  Draper 
went  to  the  Door  and  partly  opened  it  to  see  who 
was  there,  and  discovering  the  s*^  Comestock,  he  told 
him  he  should  not  come  in,  he  said  he  came  to  do 
him  the  said  Draper  no  hurt.  For  he  was  come  to 
Sea  what  his  demands  was  concerning  Richard  Old- 
ridge  (who  was  committed  to  prison  for  not  paying 
his  rates)  to  see  if  they  could  make  up  matters ;  the 
said  Draper  asked  him  where  he  came  from,  he  an- 
swered he  came  from  Boston,  to  which  the  s^  Draper 
replied,  if  he  the  said  Comestock  came  from  Boston, 
he  might  have  Seen  the  mittimus  by  which  the  said 
Oldrich  was  Committed  to  Goal,  which  would  have 
satisfied  him  what  was  due,  and  while  the  said  Draper 
was  shifting  his  Cloaths  and  putting  on  his  Shoes, 
the  s"?  Comestock  took  hold  of  the   Deponent  and 

1  Enclosed  in  Belcher's  letter  of  March  5,  1732. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island  5 1 

told  him  he  should  go  along  with  him,  then  Draper 
asked  him  to  let  him  dress  himself,  but  Comestock 
would  not  let  him;  Then  Draper  bid  his  wife  lock 
the  door,  and  thereupon  Comestock  run  to  the  door 
and  cryed  aloud  for  help,  and  then  Draper  bid  his 
wife  run  out  at  the  back  Door  and  cry  murder  that 
so  one  Silvanus  Scot  who  lives  about  thirty  rod  off 
might  hear  her,  soon  after  came  Samuel  Staples, 
Alexander  Gowdy  both  of  Smithfield  afores^  hus- 
bandmen with  Clubbs  in  their  hands  to  the  said 
Drapers  house,  and  Comestock  bid  them  stave  the 
door  open,  and  the  said  Draper  forbid  them,  but 
they  Stove  the  door  open  and  brake  the  lock  of  the 
door  and  came  into  the  s^  Drapers  house,  then  they 
delivered  Comestock  a  Clubb,  and  he  knockt  him 
down  and  Struck  him  with  it  Several  blows  on  the 
head  and  Face  and  they  hailed  him  out  of  doors. 
Staples  dragging  him  by  the  hair  of  his  head  and 
told  him  he  must  go  along  with  them,  then  Draper 
asked  them  to  let  him  get  his  hat,  but  Stap[l]es  forced 
him  away  without  his  hat  and  knockt  him  down 
three  Several  times,  then  they  bid  the  said  Draper 
get  upon  Comestocks  horse  or  else  the  sf  Samuel 
Staples  told  him  he  would  knock  his  brains  out, 
so  that  the  s^  Draper  rid  behind  Comestock  some 
considerable  time,  and  as  the  said  Draper  rid  along 
Comestock  Swore  by  God  Several  times  that  if  he 
the  said  Draper  offered  to  get  off  the  horse  he  would 
be  the  death  of  him,  and  that  he  would  make  a  Sac- 
rifice of  him  For  the  Devil,  notwithstanding  the  s^ 
Draper  took  his  opportunity  and  jumpt  off  the  horse, 
Stap[l]es  and  Gowdy  being  on  foot  behind  where- 


52  Correspondence  of  the 

upon  Comestock  said  the  damn'd  Devil  was  gone, 
and  the  s*?  Draper  run  through  the  bushes,  and  got  to 
the  house  of  one  Benjamin  Thompson  in  BelHngham 
where  he  Found  Benj^  Thompson,  Samuel  Darling 
and  Tho^  Holbrook  who  were  coming  to  the  assist- 
ance of  the  sf  Draper  and  they  with  Richard  Blood 
Ebenezer  Perry  and  others  kept  Guard  that  night, 
and  the  next  day  viz*  on  Munday  last  he  set  out  from 
thence  with  the  said  Blood  for  Boston  in  order  to  make 
known  to  Your  Excellency  and  Honours  the  truth  of 
the  Facts,  and  to  pray  for  redress  in  the  premisses 

Jonathan  Draper 

A  true  Copy     Examined  per  J  Willard  Secry. 

Richard  Blood  of  Bellingham  husbandman  saith 
That  on  the  last  Lords  Day  Evening  about  Seven  a 
Clock  he  hearing  that  Jon*  Draper  was  apprehended 
and  carried  to  the  house  of  Benjamin  Thompson,  went 
to  the  sf  Thompsons  house  and  Found  the  s'^  Draper 
very  much  bruised  and  his  Face  very  bloody.  And 
the  Depon'  Seing  Silvanus  Scot  who  is  near  Neigh- 
bour to  the  s*^  Draper  asked  him  why  he  did  not  go 
out  to  help  the  s*?  Draper,  Scot  said  the  reason  was 
because  they  threatened  to  knock  him  down,  and  the 
Depon*  asked  who  threatened  him  he  said  then  Sam! 
Staples  and  afterwards  the  s'?  Scot  told  another  man 
he  knew  not  the  men  that  assaulted  Draper ;  altho' 
he  afterwards  in  talk  owned  that  Comestock  came  to 
his  house  and  enquired  of  him  the  Sabbath  Day 
Evening,  whether  Draper  was  at  home ;  so  that  the 
Depont  has  reason  to  think  that  Scot  was  privy  to  the 
s^  Comestocks  evil  Design ;  And  further  saith  not. 

Richard  Blood 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island          53 

Jon?  Draper  and  Richard  Blood  made  oath  to  the 
Truth  of  their  respective  Depositions  before  written 
by  them  Subscribed  in  His  Majestys  Supr  Court  of 
Judicature  at  Boston  March  5*?*  1733  being  taken  by 
the  Direction  of  his  Excellency  the  Governour  and 
Council. 

Att^  Benj^  Rolfe  Cler 

A  true  Copy    Exam*  per  J  Willard  Secry. 


JOHN    PEAGRUM   TO    GOVERNOR  WANTON, 

6'': 

I  had  the  favour  of  Yo"  w'^''  I  should  have  an- 
swer'd  by  the  return  of  the  Post :  but  had  then  tho'' 
of  waiting  upon  you  MySelf  and  if  you  had  refused 
to  Swear  Mr  Robinson  I  Should  have  done  it. 

Affairs  Since  have  Prevented  my  Coming,  but  M' 
Achmuty  having  Business  w''*'  call'd  him  to  Rhode 
Island,  I  have  desired  him  to  be  the  Bearer  of  this, 
and  to  Satisfie  your  Hon'  I  Have  nothing  to  do  w'^ 
Yo""  Assemblys  but  only  w'*"  the  Commander  In  Cheif. 
and  am  Perswaded  when  you  are  Rightly  Informd 
of  the  Matter  you  will  Comply  w*''  My  request  and 
Not  Oblige  me  to  Persue  Methods  w"''  May  be  of  111 
Consequence  to  Yo''  Colony 

I  am  S*"  w***  Great  Respects 

Yo-"  Hon'^  Most  Humble  Se" 

Jn  Peagrum 

Boston  22  March  173I. 

To  the  Hon"*  W^  Wanton 


54  Correspondence  of  the 

WILLIAM    JENCKS  ^   TO    DEPUTY-GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

Providence  March  the  23*  173 J 
Honourable  Sir 

I  understand  that  the  Gov''  of  Boston  has  sent  to 
desire  our  Government  to  send  Hasadiah  Comstock 
and  others  to  Boston  there  to  Answer  for  the  villiny 
they  Committed  against  one  Draper,  I  am  of  opinion 
if,  our  Government  should  give  a  flat  denyal  to  send 
them,  and  should  seem  there  by  to  Countenance  such 
actions,  it  Would  appear  very  black  against  us  in 
England,  therefore  if  I  may  adventure  to  advise  in 
the  affair  I  am  of  opinion  that  it  Would  be  advisa- 
ble for  us  to  send  a  Letter  to  Boston  signifying  our 
obhorance  to  such  actions,  and  the  care  that  has  been 
taken  for  the  due  punishment  there  of  by  ordering 
our  Justices  to  Examin  the  partys,  and  notefying 
Draper  to  be  present  with  his  Evidence  to  prove  his 
charge  but  he  Not  appearing  nothing  could  be  done, 
and  as  to  our  sending  them  to  boston  in  order  to 
their  tryal  there,  I  think  it  would  be  Requeset  to 
Inform  them  that  there  is  a  Controvercy  betwixt  the 
Governments  Respecting  the  bounds,  and  that  it 
would  be  very  un Reasonable  to  send  the  men  to 
Boston  for  their  tryal  if  the  fact  was  Committed 
with  in  our  Jurysdiction,  and  therefore  I  would  make 
them  this  offer  that  in  case  they  will  agree  and  settle 
the  bounds  with  us  betwixt  the  Governments,  then  if 
it  doth  appear  that  the  fact  complained  of  was  Com- 
mitted with  in  their  Jurysdiction,  we  will  send  the 

1  Jencks  was  deputy  for  Providence  in  1727,  and  in  1728  served  upon  a  committee 
appointed  by  the  Assembly  to  assist,  or  instruct,  the  Joint  Boundary  Commission. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         55 

men  and  if  the  Jurysdiction  prove  to  be  ours  then 
Draper  may  prosecute  them  here,  where  he  shall  be 
sure  to  have  Justice  and  with  all  I  would  Inform 
them  that  we  think  there  is  the  same  Reason  that 
they  should  send  Cap*  foster  Samuel  Tilver  and 
others  to  us  who  are  guilty  of  as  bad  facts  and  of  the 
same  Nature,  if  after  the  settlement  of  the  bounds  it 
doth  appear  that  the  s'^  facts  were  Committed  in  our 
Colony  as  we  think  they  were,  these  few  hints  being 
what  offers  at  present  from  your  assured  friend  and 
servant 

William  Jencks 

To  the  Hon"^  John  Wanton 
Dep  Gov"^  at  Newport 


RICHARD    PARTRmGE   TO    GOVERNOR    WANTON. 

London  2*  mo:  or  Apr.  30:  1734 
Gov^.   Wanton 

My  last  to  thee  was  of  the  412  mo.  per  Cap*  Bon- 
ner via  Boston,  since  which  the  House  of  Lords  dropt 
the  affair  relating  to  Iron  Manufact?^  but  afterwards 
came  to  some  warm  Resolutions  respecting  the  Plan- 
tations on  the  Continent,  a  Copy  whereof  I  judged 

1  On  March  7,  173I,  a  committee  was  appointed  by  the  House  of  Lords  "to  con- 
sider of  the  Representation  of  the  Commissioners  for  Trade  and  Plantations,  re- 
lating to  the  Laws  made,  Manufactures  set  up,  and  Trade  carried  on,  in  any  of  His 
Majesty's  Colonies  and  Plantations  in  America,  which  may  have  affected  the  Trade, 
Navigation  and  Manufactures  of  this  Kingdom."  Gentleman'' s  Magazine  (1734), 
page  176.  No  further  mention  of  such  a  committee  is  made  in  the  reports  of  the 
sessions  of  1734  and  1735,  ^'^^^  ^^  ^^  Report  of  the  Hist.  MSS.  Com.,  XIV.  10,  5,  is 
catalogued  under  "  Journals  of  the  House  of  Lords  "  a  Report  on  Manufactures  and 
Trade  in  the  Colonies,  delivered  on  April  5,  1734,  by  a  committee  appointed  to  inves- 
tigate the  subject. 


56  Correspondence  of  the 

it  my  duty  to  send  thee  which  comes  here  inclosed, 
thou  wilt  see  therein  that  the  Judges  are  ordered  to 
bring  in  a  Bill  pursuant  to  the  s"?  Resolution,  next  Ses- 
sion of  Parliament,  the  great  inconveniencys  that 
will  attend  such  a  Law  I  think  almost  needless  to 
point  out,  but  this  I  would  say  that  should  it  pass,  in 
all  probability  a  considerable  sum  of  money  must 
necessarily  be  expended  annualy  at  the  Council 
Office  and  Board  of  Trade  to  get  the  Acts  through 
here,  in  fees  for  Petitions  Reports,  References,  and 
Royal  Orders,  besides  the  tedious  delays  that  may 
happen  — :  please  to  communicate  this  to  the  Gen- 
eral Court  who  if  they  shall  judge  proper  it  should 
be  opposed  let  me  know  with  full  Instructions  there- 
about and  I  will  do  my  utmost  endeavour  to  serve 
them. 

We  continue  here  still  in  Peace ;  but  a  considera- 
ble Fleet  of  Men  of  War  lye  ready  in  the  Downs  to 
proceed  when  ever  the  Court  shall  think  fitt  to  give 
orders,  whether  they  will  saile  for  the  Baltick  or  the 
Mediteranian,  or  indeed  any  further  than  they  are  we 
know  not  yet. 

I  believe  great  endeavours  are  used  on  our  Part 
that  the  English  keep  from  intermedling  by  taking 
part  in  the  quarrels  of  the  Contending  Partys  if  pos- 
sibly it  can  be  with  honour  and  safety,  so  that  at 
present  I  dont  see  there  is  any  such  thing  can  be 
as  forming  a  Judgement  whether  our  Peace  will  be 
lasting  or  a  Rupture  break  out :  time  only  must  man- 
ifest it : 
for  the  rest  I  referr  to  the  inclosed  Prints  and  re- 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         57 

main  with  my  Respects  to  thySelf  the  Gentlemen  of 
the  Council  and  House  of  Representatives 

Their  ffaithfull  friend 

RiCH°  Partridge 

Inclosed  is  also  the  Representation  of  the  Lords  of 
Trade  to  the  House  of  Lords  upon  w"^**  they  ground 
their  Resolutions. 

3  mo.  the  4th.  since  the  foregoing  our  dayly  Cour- 
ant  has  the  following  paragraph  viz  —  (of  this  day) 

We  are  informed  that  the  Squadron  of  Men  of 
War  under  the  Command  of  Sy  John  Norris  will  sail 
for  the  Mediteranean  in  Ten  days  time  and  will  con- 
sist of  25  Ships  of  the  line,  besides  fireships  &c. 

W^  Wanton  Esq 

Govern!"  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plan- 
tations 


THE   GENERAL    COURT    OF     MASSACHUSETTS   TO   THE   GOV- 
ERNOR ^    OF    RHODE    ISLAND. 

Province  of  the  Massachusetts  Bay. 
Hon"'  Sir, 

It  is  very  unpleasant  that  We  have  Occasion,  so 
frequently  to  Complain  of  the  Insults,  hardships  and 
difficulties  which  the  People  in  Yo""  Government,  and 
many  times  by  direction  of  Your  Authority,  Offer 
to  His  Majesty's  Good  and  Peaceable  Subjects  of 
this  Province,  living  near  the  Line  in  the  Towns  of 
Attleborough,  Wrentham,  Bellingham  and  Mendon ; 

1  Governor  John  Wanton.    See  p.  xvii  of  the  Introduction. 


58  Correspondence  of  the 

did  this  Land  ^  really  belong  to  you  (as  we  are  abun- 
dantly persuaded  it  does  not)  Yet  the  method  you 
have  taken  must  be  condemned  by  all  impartial  Men, 
nor  would  You  Suffer  any  particular  person  in  your 
Government  who  claimed  an  Estate  that  had  been 
settled  and  possessed  by  another,  time  out  of  mind, 
to  disturb  and  disquiet  his  Neighbour  in  such  an  Un- 
heard of  and  vexatious  manner.  As  Governm*f  expect 
Obedience  and  Subjection  to  their  Laws  and  Orders, 
They  certainly  ought  to  sett  Examples  and  Sacredly 
support,  maintain,  and  adhere  to  the  Grand  Princi- 
ples and  Foundation  of  Governm!  Should  this  Gov- 
ernment have  Invaded,  made  Inroads  and  Reprizals 
upon  the  People  who  had  been  Settled  and  possessed 
by  you  from  the  beginning  of  yof  Government,  as  you 
have  done  upon  Us,  What  would  there  have  been 
but  a  plain  and  open  Warr,  and  how  dishonourable 
as  well  as  Offensive  must  this  have  been  to  Our  most 
Gracious  Soveraign.  And  what  has  been  wanting 
to  this  Open  State  of  War,  but  that  this  Governm! 
after  high  and  repeated  provocations  have  judg'd  it 
unjust  to  do  by  your  People  what  you  have  done  to 
Ours  without  any  provocation  at  all.     For  men  to  be 


1  Hutchinson  says  in  his  History  of  Massachusetts-Bay,  II.  400,  that  in  his  time  the 
records  of  the  boundary  dispute  between  Rhode  Island  and  Massachusetts  had  been 
destroyed,  but  that  it  was  "  certain  that  for  divers  years  past  tlie  only  part  in  contro- 
versy between  the  two  governments  was  a  small  gore  of  land  between  Attleborough 
in  the  Massachusetts  and  the  old  township  of  Providence."  The  boundary  was  set- 
tled by  a  commission  in  1740-41,  and  "To  the  surprize  of  Massachusetts,  a  line 
was  determined  which  not  only  took  from  them  the  gore  formerly  in  dispute,  but  the 
towns  of  Bristol,  Tiverton  and  Little-Compton,  and  great  part  of  Swanzey  and  Bar- 
rington."  Ibid.,  II.  401.  A  note  states  that  this  country  was  conquered  by  Massa- 
chusetts and  Plymouth  from  Philip,  and  to  prevent  dispute  expressly  granted  to 
Plymouth  by  Charles  II.  The  matter  was  adjusted,  so  far  as  regards  the  colonial 
period,  by  the  royal  decree  of  1746.    See  p.  xviii  of  the  Introduction. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         59 

dragged  to  Goal  and  fined  exorbitant  Sums  for  Pay- 
ing or  Gathering  Taxes  from  People  in  a  Town  Con- 
stituted and  Ordered  to  belong  to  this  Government 
by  a  Law  of  the  Province,  that  has  the  Royal  Sanc- 
tion,—  for  Your  People  to  come  into  this  Province 
even  beyond  your  Own  pretence,  and  Insult,  Lay 
violent  Hands  Upon,  and  almost  Murder  a  Public 
Officer,  and  then  retire  into  Your  Colony  and  pass 
with  Impunity  is  truly  extraordinary.  We  must 
therefore  Insist  that  You  Surrender  Hezekiah  Cum- 
stock  ^  Samuel  Staples  and  Alexander  Goudy  all  of 
Smithfield,  who  were  Actors  in  that  great  abuse  to 
Jonathan  Draper  an  Under  Sheriff,  Or  that  You 
Assist  by  Yo'  Authority  in  Apprehending  those  Per- 
sons that  they  may  be  brought  to  tryal  for  the  great 
Crime  they  are  charged  with,  which  was  Committed 
in  this  Province  beyond  yol"  pretended  Claim,  If  You 
shou'd  refuse  it.  You  thereby  take  such  a  Crime  upon 
Yourselves,  as  no  Government  can  with  any  Colour 
defend. 

And  as  unjustifyable  seems  to  be  the  Suit  now 
depending  before  yo'  General  Assembly.  Josselyn 
is  prosecuted  for  doing  that,  which  had  been  an 
inexcusable  Crime  in  him  to  have  Omitted.  The 
King  by  a  Public  Act  Ratifyed  now  above  Thirty 
years  ago,  had  committed  this  People  to  this  Govern- 
ment, And  the  Government  had  committed  them  in 
this  Affair  of  Taxes  to  the  Constable,     And  is  he  a 

1  In  the  Assembly  of  June,  1734,  it  was  voted  that  "Hezekiah  Culmstock  "  be 
delivered  to  the  authority  of  Massachusetts  Bay,  to  have  a  trial  "  upon  the  complaint 
of  Jonathan  Draper,  pursuant  to  the  request  of  the  Great  and  General  Court  of  said 
Province  of  the  Massachusetts  Bay,  by  their  letter,  dated  the  13th  day  of  this  instant 
June."    Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  IV.  498. 


6o  Correspondence  of  the 

Criminal,  for  Informing  those  who  thus  Commanded 
him,  of  the  difficulties  he  met  with  in  doing  what 
they  Ordered  ?  But  We  hope  when  Yor  Assembly 
come  to  be  fully  apprized  of  the  Circumstances  of 
this  Affair  (Which  We  fear  by  some  perhaps  too 
much  Engaged  in  the  Controversy,  have  been  very 
much  concealed  from  them)  They  will  see  Justice 
done.  If  this  Prosecution  be  just  and  reasonable, 
if  the  Constables  are  punishable  for  executing  their 
Office  now,  they  are  likewise  punishable  for  what 
they  have  done  these  Forty  years  and  more.  Was 
there  ever  an  Instance  of  a  man's  being  punish'd 
for  any  possessory  Act  in  what  he  had  Quietly  pos- 
sessed above  Seventy  years?  Ought  You  not  to 
have  Waited  'till  you  had  regularly  dispossess'd  Us  ? 
before  You  had  punish'd  Our  People  for  Acting 
upon  this  Land  or  for  Complaining  when  they  were 
Obstructed  ?  We  do  therefore  hereby  Demand  and 
Insist  that  the  Fines  and  Costs  laid  upon  Sundry  of 
Our  Inhabitants  by  Yo!  Government,  Should  be  re- 
mitted or  reimbursed,  particularly  Henry  Josselyn's, 
John  Robins's,  John  Sweetland's,  Benjamin  Slack's, 
Benjamin  Crabtree's,  and  Timothy  Tingley's,  and 
that  You  would  take  Care  that  Henry  Josselyn  be 
relieved  under,  or  delivered  from  this  unjust  Prose- 
cution 

We  are  very  lately  Informed,  that  Jonathan  Jenkes 
has  made  an  Escape  from  His  Majesty's  Goal  in  the 
County  of  Bristol,  And  that  Your  Authority  have 
been  desired  when  met  in  Court  at  Providence,  to 
return  him  to  Justice,  Which  they  then  declined  to 
do,  tho'  Jenkes  was  then  present  in  Court.     Should 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         6i 

Neighbouring  Governments  thus  protect  Criminals 
who  fly  from  Justice,  What  Confusions  must  ensue, 
and  what  dishonour  will  be  done  His  Majesty,  Who 
is  the  Common  Father  of  us  all,  and  delights  so  much 
that  Justice  Should  have  free  Course ;  We  must 
therefore  Press  You  to  give  Order,  that  he  be  de- 
livered to  the  proper  Officer  in  this  Province  that 
he  may  be  proceeded  with  according  to  the  Laws  of 
this  His  Majesty's  Government,  And  We  have  the 
more  reason  to  Expect  this,  because  We  have  been 
always  ready  to  treat  Your  Authority  in  this  manner, 
And  deliver  up  all  Criminals  that  have  fled  from  Jus- 
tice in  Yo'  Government. 

We  desire  Your  Honour  would  Communicate  this 
to  Yor  General  Assembly  and  that  We  may  have  a 
speedy  Answer,  before  the  Rising  of  the  General 
Court  here,  that  We  may  determine  according  as 
the  Answer  shall  be,  in  the  present  Session. 

In  the  Name  and  by  Order  of  the  Great  and  Gen- 
eral Court  or  Assembly 

J  WiLLARD  Secretary. 
Boston  June  13'.''  1734. 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON.^ 

LoND?  4'."  mo.  the  29  1734. 

Gov\  Wanton 

I  have  received  from  the  late  Gov^  thy  Brother  a 
letter  dated  Aprill  the  19'^  last,  with  sundry  papers 
and   Instructions  (per  Cap*  Borden)  relating  to  the 

i  See  note  on  p.  62. 


62  Correspondence  of  the 

Boundarys^  between  yo!"  Colony  and  the  Province  of 
the  Massachus^'  Bay,  which  Affair  I  shall  pursue 
in  the  best  manner  I  can  for  the  Colonys  Interest, 
having  already  retaind  the  Attourney  General  as 
Council  for  us,  and  shall  give  thee  advice  as  I  pro- 
ceed, but  as  it  will  be  attended  with  considerable 
charge  I  must  desire  to  be  furnished  with  a  further 
Supply  of  money,  especialy  if  I  must  oppose  the 
BilP  that  is  to  be  brought  into  the  House  of  Lords 
next  Sessions  of  Parliam!  relating  to  the  Laws  &c  of 
the  Northern  Colonys  as  I  advised  the  late  Govern!" 
in  my  last  per  Cap!  Cary  via  Boston. 

We  have  no  Rupture  yet  with  France  or  Spain 
which  continues  doubtfull  still. 

I  am  with  kind  respects     Thy  assured  Friend 

RichP  Partridge 

I  understand  the  Massach*.'  Agent  has  got  some 
ace!  of  violence  used  or  comitted  by  Rh'^  Island 
People  on  some  of  theirs.  Now  if  you  have  any 
proofs  of  the  like  usage  on  their  side  please  let  me 
have  them. 

To  John  Wanton  Esq 

Govern!"  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plan- 
tations In  Newport. 


1  The  petition  of  Rhode  Island  upon  the  Massachusetts  boundary  was  dated  April 
19,  1734.  It  asserted  that  Massachusetts  claimed  about  20,000  acres  east  of  Paw- 
tucket  River  and  the  three-mile  line  east  of  Narragansett  Bay,  that  were  clearly  within 
the  limits  of  Rhode  Island,  as  defined  by  the  charter.  The  matter  was  turned  over  to 
the  Board  of  Trade,  and  remained  untouched  for  two  years  while  the  repUes  were  in 
process  of  preparation. 

2  See  note  on  p.  55. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island  63 

THE  SECRETARY  OF  RHODE  ISLAND  TO   RICHARD  PARTRIDGE. 

Newport  Rhode  Island  6'."  September  1734 

Your  Letter  of  the  30*!"  of  April  past^  came  safe  to 
his  Honour  the  Governour  with  the  Report  of  the 
Committee  of  the  House  of  Lords  And  I  am  ordered 
by  the  General  Council  to  let  You  know  that  with  great 
Concern  they  observed  the  Contents  thereof,  Con- 
cluding that  if  it  should  be  pass'd  into  an  Act  would 
certainly  prove  very  hurtfull  and  disadvantageous  to 
this  Constitution  by  losing  the  greatest  Priviledge 
We  have  for  a  long  Time  enjoyed :  Besides  the 
Charges  and  Expences  this  Government  would  inev- 
itably be  put  to  in  sending  home  their  Laws  for  the 
Royal  Approbation.  Wherefore  by  the  Council  you 
are  desired  to  pursue  such  Methods  as  are  most 
proper  and  take  the  best  Advice  in  order  to  prevent 
so  great  an  Inconveniency  as  will  unavoidably  attend 
Us  by  the  passing  of  such  a  Bill. 

The  Governor  would  have  communicated  your 
Letter  and  this  Affair  to  the  General  Assembly 
that  was  to  be  held  by  Adjournment  the  last  Month, 
Had  it  not  accidentally  fell  through  and  was  dis- 
solved for  want  of  some  Members  from  the  Main 
Land  sufficient  to  constitute  a  Court.  But  designs 
to  do  it  at  their  Setting  the  last  Wednesday  in  next 
Month  and  afterwards  You  will  have  a  more  partic- 
ular Account. 

This  Colony  always  paid  a  due  Deference  and 
Regard  to  any  Orders  and  Instructions  either  from 

1  Not  in  the  archives. 


64  Correspondence  of  the 

his  Majesty  or  the  Board  of  Trade  And  did  imedi- 
ately  upon  the  Receipt  of  an  Order  from  that  Board 
repeal  an  Act  for  laying  a  Duty  upon  Slaves  im- 
ported here,  and  have  now  no  Act  or  Law  for  the 
encouraging  any  Manufacture  whatsoever  Saving  the 
Whale  and  Codd  Fishery :  and  have  allowed  a  large 
Bounty  to  promote  the  raising  of  Hemp  and  Flax 
which  was  concluded  might  be  of  Service  hereafter 
to  Great  Britain  our  Mother  Country. 

"  As  to  the  3''?  Resolution  of  the  Committee  of 
"  Lords  respecting  the  Governours  of  Rhode  Island 
"and  Connecticut  taking  the  usual  Oaths  of  Alle- 
"  giance  and  Fidelity  taken  by  other  Governours  and 
"  entring  into  such  Securities  to  his  Majesty  for  the 
"  due  Observance  of  the  Laws  of  Trade  and  Navi- 
*'  gation  and  to  the  like  Value  as  other  Governours 
"  of  his  Majesty's  Plantations  in  the  presence  of 
"such  of  his  Majesty's  Governours  as  should  be 
"from  time  to  time  appointed."  The  making  such 
a  Law  would  be  the  greatest  Detriment  imaginable 
to  the  Colony,  Because  that  after  a  Governour  is 
elected  on  the  first  Wednesday  in  May  according  to 
Charter,  no  Person  in  This  Colony  can  act  in  any 
Authority  either  Civil  or  Military  throughout  the 
Same  till  such  Governour  after  elected  has  taken 
his  Oath  or  Affirmation  to  the  due  Execution  of 
that  Office  to  qualify  Himself  to  grant  Commissions 
accordingly ;  Such  Officers  being  always  chosen  at 
the  same  Sessions  the  Day  after  the  Governour : 
The  ill  Consequences  whereof  every  Person  may 
clearly  discern   should  such  Governour  be  obliged 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island  65 

to  do  it  before  Any  of  his  Majesty's  Governours  of 
another  Province. 

Sign'd  by  Order  of  the  General  Council 

Jas  Martin  Secretary 

To  M'  Richard  Partridge  Merchant 
in  London 


THE  SECRETARY  OF  RHODE  ISLAND  TO  RICHARD  PARTRIDGE. 

Newport  Rhode  Island  20'?  December  1734 

We  expect  You  have  before  this  Time  received 
the  Letter  of  the  6*!"  September  past  signed  by  the 
Secretary  by  Order  of  the  General  Council  Via  Bos- 
ton, with  a  Duplicate  (But  for  fear  of  a  Miscarriage 
You  have  herewith  a  Copy  inclosed),  It  having  been 
presented  to  Us  and  well  approved  of,  wherefore  You 
are  desired  to  follow  such  Directions  as  is  therein 
contained  in  the  most  proper  Method. 

We  have  had  your  Letter  of  the  29*^  of  June  past 
communicated  to  Us,  wherein  You  acknowledge  the 
receipt  of  our  Appeal  relating  [to]  the  Gore,^  which 
We  hope  is  long  since  presented  to  his  Majesty  and 
the  neighbouring  Province  ordered  to  be  cited;  If 
not  done  already  desire  it  may  be,  as  soon  as  You 
receive  this:  Because  the  Inhabitants  of  the  Gore 
are  extreamly  oppressed  by  being  haled  to  Goal  and 
amerced  in  great  Sums  of  Money  As  You  may  see 
by  the  Copies  of  the  Judgments  in  the  Courts  of  the 

1  In  the  session  of  December,  1733,  it  was  "Voted  and  resolved,  that  the  appeal  to 
His  Majesty  (relating  to  the  gore  of  land  in  controversy),  presented  to  this  Assembly, 
is  approved  of,  and  ordered  forthwith  to  be  sent  home  to  His  Majesty,  in  Great 
Britain,  signed  by  His  Honor,  the  Governor."    Col.  Rec.  of  R.  J.,  IV.  491. 


66  Correspondence  of  the 

Province :  So  that  unless  the  Difference  about  the 
Jurisdiction  thereof  is  push'd  forward  for  a  speedy 
Determination ;  Or  an  Order  obtained  'till  then  for 
a  Suspension  of  the  payment  of  any  Rates  and 
Taxes  to  the  Province ;  It  will  prove  the  total  Ruin 
and  Destruction  of  a  great  many  Families  inhabit- 
ing thereon.  You  have  herewith  several  Evidences 
relating  to  Violences  that  have  been  committed  by 
the  Officers  of  the  Massachusetts  Province  on  Sun- 
dry of  the  People,  Whom  We  claim  to  be  under 
our  Jurisdiction,  of  which  You  may  make  a  proper 
Application,  Any  other  Papers  that  We  shall  think 
necessary  in  the  Affair  hereafter  shall  be  transmitted, 
And  You  are  desired  to  go  on  with  this  Appeal  as 
expeditious  as  possibly  You  can  (and  suitable  Remit- 
tances shall  be  made  for  that  purpose)  Which  will 
further  confirm  the  good  Esteem  we  have  of  You, 
Although  it  has  been  questioned  by  some  Persons, 
Whether  the  near  Alliance  You  are  in  to  the  Gov- 
ernour  of  that  Province^  and  an  Agent  to  him  in  his 
own  private  Affairs ;  would  not  be  prejudicial  to  Us 
in  this  Affair  between  the  Governments  ?  But  We 
are  of  Opinion  that  You  are,  (As  We  have  always 
found  You  to  be)  a  Man  of  more  Honour  and  Integ- 
rity and  would  sooner  exert  your  Self  in  this  than 
any  other  Matter,  to  avoid  an  Imputation. 

Your  Letters  about  the  Augmentation  of  your 
Salary  have  been  laid  before  Us,  and  We  having 
a  great  deal  of  Business  did  rise  without  acting 
thereon  :  But  upon  the  good  Success  of  the  Affairs 
You  have  now  in  Commission  You  may  expect  from 

1  Partridge  was  a  brother-in-law  of  Governor  Belcher. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         67 

Us  a  handsom  Gratuity.  We  hope  before  this  time 
You  have  received  the  Money  from  the  Jersies  for 
to  defray  the  Expence  of  their  Quota  of  your  last 
Account  about  the  Sugar  Bill,  and  given  this  Colony 
Credit  for  the  Same,  if  not  received  desire  You  will 
press  them  forward  to  make  a  Remittance  for  that 
purpose. 

We  understand  that  Col?  Lewis  Morris  the  late 
Supreme  Judge  of  the  Province  of  New  York  is 
embarked  for  London,  Where  if  He  should  arrive 
You  are  desired  to  advise  with  him  about  the  Affair 
of  the  Gore,  He  being  well  acquainted  therewith 
having  had  the  perusall  of  all  the  Papers  and  partly 
concerned  in  drawing  the  State  of  the  Case  signed 
by  our  Commissioners  already  sent  You. 

Sign'd  by  Order  of  his  Honour  the  Governor 
In  the  Behalf  of  the  General  Assembly 

Jas.  Martin  Secretary 

To  W.  Richard  Partridge  Merchant 
In  London 


RICHARD    partridge    TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

London  ii  m?  the  29.  \^z\• 
Golf.  Wanton 

Thine  of  the  14.  of  the  6  mo.  and  Sec^  Martins  of 
6  f^'  I  have  reed  and  observe  the  Contents ;  I  see 
the  Affair  I  writt  thee  of  relating  to  the  Resolutions 
of  the  Lords  last  Sessions  of  Parliam'  was  not  laid 
before  yo'  Assembly  but  that  it  was  intended  to  be 
done  the  next  Sessions  —  depend  upon  it  I  shall 
exert  myself  jointly  with  the  other  Agents  in  oppo- 


68  Correspondence  of  the 

sition  to  the  Bill  intended  to  be  brought  in  by  the 
Judges,  when  ever  it  is,  and  comes  under  consider- 
ation in  the  House  of  Lords :  The  Sessions  of  Par- 
liament is  now  begun  a  few  days  since  but  nothing 
as  yet  of  that  kind  has  been  exhibited,  I  have  been 
up  there  2  or  3  times  already  and  due  care  must  be 
taken  to  watch  the  proceedings,  for  that  the  Lords 
dont  print  their  Votes  as  the  Commons  do. 

I  writt  thee  some  time  since  and  sent  thee  the 
Attourny  Gen'f  opinion  upon  the  Query  I  reed  from 
thee,  which  I  take  to  be  alltogether  in  thy  favour 
—  and  hope  it  got  safe  to  thy  hand  tho'  I  have  had 
no  letter  from  thee  in  answer  to  it  or  to  the  other 
matter  I  then  writt  thee  about 

As  to  our  taking  part  in  the  War  we  are  at  as 
much  uncertainty  about  it  as  ever  by  all  that  I  can 
learn  and  what  Judgm*  to  form  we  know  not  but 
hope  for  a  continuance  of  Tranquility.  I  send  thee 
herewith  the  Kings  Speech  and  the  2  Addresses 
with  other  prints  and  remain  w**"  kind  respects  to 
thySelf  and  the  Council  and  Assembly 
Thy  ffaithfull  Frd 

R°  Partridge 

I  have  got  the  Rh*^  Island  Petition^  exhibited  to  the 
King  in  Council,  and  from  a  Comittee  it  is  referrd 
to  the  Lords  of  Trade,  a  Copy  of  the  order  of  Refer- 
ence comes  inclosed. 

1  See  note  on  p.  30. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         69 


RICHARD   PARTRIDGE   TO   JAMES    MARTIN.^ 

LOND?  2?  mo  or  April  lo'I"  1735 

James  Martin 

Thine  of  the  6*^  Sep!"  and  20*!"  Dec!"  last  I  have 
received  with  the  several  Papers  inclosed  w'^''  I  hope 
will  be  of  good  Service  to  us,  and  as  Col?  Morris^ 
is  now  here,  we  shall  get  what  light  and  information 
we  can  of  him  in  relation  to  the  present  dispute  of 
the  Boundary  with  the  Province  of  the  Massachu- 
sets,  which  I  intend  to  prosecute  (with  all  faithfull- 
ness  to  those  whom  I  represent,  And  be  assured 
that  no  consideration  whatever  shall  byass  me  to 
forfeit  the  Trust  reposed  in  me,  but  my  zeal  for  the 
Interest  and  good  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island 
and  Providence  Plantations,  shall  be  the  same  (with- 
out the  least  variation)  as  it  has  all  along  hitherto 
been,  (notwithstanding  my  Relationship  ^  to  Gov""  Bel- 
cher) otherwise  I  sh'^  be  unworthy  of  the  favour  I 
have  already  receivd  and  of  the  continuation  thereof 
I  yet  expect  from  the  Colony,  who  I  must  needs 
own  have  generously  kept  me  duely  furnished  with 
Supplys;  And  I  hope  the  Gentlemen  there  have  a 
better  opinion   of  me   than  to  imagine  I  cou'd  be 


1  Secretary  of  the  colony  of  Rhode  Island. 

2  This  is  probably  Colonel  Lewis  Morris,  Jr.,  of  Westchester,  N.  Y.,  who  served  in 
behalf  of  Rhode  Island  on  a  commission  which  met  at  New  London,  in  1733,  to  deter- 
mine the  Massachusetts-Rhode  Island  boundary,  and  was  unable  to  come  to  an  agree- 
ment. The  Rhode  Island  Assembly  voted  a  silver  tankard,  engraved  with  the  arms  of 
the  colony,  to  each  of  her  three  commissioners,  "  with  the  acknowledgement  of  this 
General  Assembly,  for  their  assistance  in  endeavoring  to  reconcile  and  put  an  end  to 
the  dispute  between  the  two  governments."  Arnold,  History  of  Rhode  Island,  II.  112. 
Arnold  quotes  Mass.  Court  Files,  III.  69-72.  See  for  vote  of  the  Assembly,  Col.  Rec. 
of  R.  /.,  IV.  488,  and  letter  of  December  20,  1734. 

3  Brother-in-law. 


70  Correspondence  of  the 

guilty  either  of  doing  or  omitting  any  thing  whereby 
their  Interest  might  suffer  or  be  prejudiced  in  the 
least.  As  to  an  Order  for  a  Suspention  of  Taxes, 
I  have  discoursd  my  Solicitor  upon  it,  and  find  it 
at  present  impracticable  to  be  obtain'd.  however 
we  shall  give  it  a  further  consideration,  the  Person 
I  have  employd  as  Solicit'  is  also  engag'd  for  New 
Hampsh^^  in  the  dispute  of  the  Boundaries  on  the 
other  side  w'''  the  Massachusets  which  is  now  de- 
pending.^ 

Our  Colonys  Petition  has  been  some  time  since 
laid  before  the  King  in  Council  and  referrd  to  a 
Committee  who  have  since  referrd  it  to  the  Lords 
Comis"  for  Trade  and  Plantations  where  it  now  lyes 
for  their  Report  and  where  it  must  first  receive  an 
Examination  in  due  form.  In  order  whereto  they 
have  been  pleas'd  to  order  a  Copy  of  our  Petition 
to  be  sent  to  the  Agent  of  the  Province  of  the 
Massachl^  with  directions  for  him  to  procure  an  an- 
swer to  it  in  Six  months  time,  as  thou  willt  see  by 
a  Copy  of  Secretary  Popples  letter  to  him  here  in- 
closed. 

Inclosed  is  one  of  the  Maps  of  the  Colony  we 
have  Q:ot  done  here  with  a  Plate  which  our  Solicitor 
insisted  upon  to  be  realy  necessary  —  one  of  which 
maps  is  also  sent  to  Agent  Wilks  by  the  said  Sec- 
retary. 

As  to  the  Resolutions^  of  the  House  of  Lords 
respecting  the  Plantations  (I  heretofore  writt  the 
Govern'   off)  The  Judges  have   not  yet  brought  in 

1  See  letter  of  xber  (December)  31, 1736. 

2  See  letter  of  September  6,  1 734. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island  71 

any  heads  of  a  Bill  as  directed  last  Sessions  of  Par- 
liam*  but  that  House  have  resolved  to  take  into  con- 
sideration on  the  1 7  Instant  the  State  of  the  Plan- 
tations and  the  Lords  of  Trades  Report,  w*'''  being 
delayd  so  long  I  am  in  hopes  they  will  scarce  be 
able  to  go  through  with  anything  of  that  nature  this 
Sessions,  but  if  they  should  push  it,  I  shall  exert 
myself  to  the  utmost  in  vindicating  the  Rights  and 
privilidges  of  the  Colony  and  duely  observe  their 
motions. 

As  to  the  Jersies  I  am  sorry  any  difference  sh"^ 
arise  touching  the  Charge  I  was  at  in  opposing  the 
Sugar  Bill,  and  rather  than  there  sh!^  be  any  contest 
remaining,  I  will  give  the  Colony  Credit  back  for 
fifty  Pounds  out  of  the  Article  chargd  in  my  last 
ace'  upon  hopes  of  their  coming  in  to  an  Augmen- 
tation of  my  Salary,  though  I  dont  expect  one  Shil- 
ling of  it  of  the  Jersies,  they  being  considerably  in 
arrears  to  me  and  I  was  only  appointed  Agent  for 
5  years  as  I  remember. 

I  was  given  to  expect  in  Gov'  Cranstons  time  I 
should  be  considerd  when  the  Affair  of  the  Bound- 
aries with  Connecticut^  was  ended,  but  after  his 
death  that  matter  dropt  and  I  hope  the  Colony  will 
not  postpone  me  till  the  present  Affair  is  over,  so  re- 
lying on  their  generosity  I  remain  with  due  Respects 
Thy  ffaithfull  ffriend 

RicH^  Partridge 

To  James  Martin  Esq 

Secretary  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and 
Providence  Plantations  In  Newport 

i  for  an  account  of  the  Connecticut  boundary,  see  p.  xxii  of  the  Introduction. 


72  Correspondence  of  the 


THE  LORDS  OF  TRADE  TO  THE  GOVERNOR  AND  COMPANY 
OF  RHODE  ISLAND. 

Whitehall,  June  the  \f}  1735. 
Sir, 

His  Majesty  having  been  pleas'd,  upon  the  address 
of  the  House  of  Commons  dated  the  I2'^  of  the  last 
Month,  to  direct  us  to  Prepare,  in  order  to  be  laid 
before  that  House  the  next  Session  of  Parliament, 
an  Account  of  what  Laws  were  in  Force  in  any  of 
His  Majesty's  Colonies  in  America  on  the  2  5'^  Day 
of  March  1731,  And  what  Laws  have  been  since 
pass'd  in  any  of  them,  by  which  any  Duties  or  Im- 
positions are  laid  on  the  Trade  and  Shipping  of  this 
Kingdom ;  As  likewise  an  Account  of  what  Duties 
or  Impositions  are  now  payable  by  an  Act  or  Acts  of 
Assembly  in  any  of  the  British  Colonies  and  Plan- 
tations in  America,  on  the  Importation  and  Expor- 
tation of  Negroes,  Wines,  or  other  kind  of  Liquors 
or  on  any  Goods,  Wares  or  Merchandize  and  Ship- 
ping, distinguishing  each  Duty  or  Imposition.  We 
desire,  you  will  forthwith  upon  Receipt  hereof,  cause 
to  be  prepar'd,  and  transmit  to  Us  as  soon  as  possi- 
ble a  List  of  the  said  Laws  and  the  Accounts  before 
mentioned  belonging  to  your  Gov!  So  we  bid  you 
heartily  farewell,  and  are. 

Your  very  loving  Friends  and  humble  Servants, 

FiTz  Walter 

T.  Pelham  R.  Plumer 

Jon.  Ashe  Ja.  Brudenell. 

O.  Bridgeman 

Hon^!^  Gov^  and  Comp^  of  Rhode  Island. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         73 


THE  GOVERNOR  AND  COMPANY  OF  RHODE  ISLAND  TO  THE 
LORDS  OF  TRADE. 

Hon^^  Sirs 

In  Obedience  to  his  Majesty's  Command  signi- 
fied to  Us  by  your  Letter  of  the  17*^  June  past^  re- 
lating to  what  Laws  were  in  force  in  this  Colony 
on  the  25*^  March  1731  and  what  have  been  since 
pass'd  laying  any  Duties  or  Impositions  on  the  Trade 
or  Shipping  of  Great  Britain,  Or  any  other  Duties 
or  Impositions  now  payable  on  the  Importation  or 
Exportation  of  Negroes  Wines,  or  other  kind  of 
Liquors  Or  on  any  Goods,  Wares  or  Merchandizes 
whatsoever :  We  do  now  in  pursuance  thereof  in- 
form You  That  We  had  not  then  nor  have  now 
any  Act  or  Law  in  this  Colony  that  lays  any  Duty 
or  Imposition  on  the  Trade  or  Shipping  of  Great 
Britain,  Or  on  the  Importation  or  Exportation  of 
any  Goods  Wares  or  Merchandizes  of  any  kind 
whatsoever,  But  some  few  Years  before,  We  had 
only  a  Duty  of  £2>  P^^  head  on  Negroes  imported 
from  the  West  Indies  (and  then  exempted  therefrom 
All  directly  from  Africa)  Which  Act  was  immedi- 
ately repealed  upon  the  receipt  of  an  Order  from 
Your  Hon^!^  Board.  We  heartily  Salute  You  with 
the  greatest  Respect. 

1  See  preceding  letter. 


74  Correspondence  of  the 

Sign'd  by  Order  and  in  behalf  of  the  Governour 
and  Company  of  his  Majesty's  EngHsh  Colony 
of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plantations  in 
New  England 

Newport  on  Rhode  Island 
I'.'  December  1735. 

To  the  Right  Hon^l^  Lords  Comm?  for  Trade  and 
Plantations  London 


GOVERNOR   WANTON   TO    RICHARD   PARTRIDGE. 

Newport  Rhode  Island  i'.'  Dec!  1735 

Your  Letters  to  the  Governour  and  Secretary 
have  been  communicated  to  Us,  and  we  apprehend 
that  We  have  already  sent  You  Evidences  sufficient 
to  shew  that  the  Plimouth  Grant  never  reached  the 
Lands  in  Controversy  now  with  the  Massachusetts 
Province  by  many  Miles,  And  inclosed  have  sent 
You  further  Evidences  of  the  late  Gov!  Jenks  and 
M'  Sprague  to  prove  the  continual  Claims  of  this 
Colony  thereto  for  near  70  Years  back,  We  desire 
You  to  put  forward  this  Affair  with  the  greatest 
Expedition  You  possibly  can,  And  for  that  purpose 
You  may  certainly  expect  to  be  furnished  with  a 
Supply  the  next  Spring  hoping  in  the  mean  time 
that  the  ballance  now  in  your  hands  will  be  suf- 
ficient, But  if  not  and  You  should  want  before  then 
(Rather  than  our  Cause  should  suffer)  If  You  will 
advance  the  Money  that  shall  be  wanting  'till  You 
have  a  Remittance,  We  will  make  You  an  Allow- 
ance for  the  Same. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island          75 

Inclosed  We  have  sent  You  a  Letter  open  accord- 
ing to  your  Draught  for  the  Right  Hon^'^  St  Charles 
Wager  ^  which  You  are  desired  to  seal  and  super- 
scribe and  wait  upon  him  with  it  praying  his  further 
good  Offices  and  Assistance  to  Us  in  procuring  the 
Cannon.  And  You  have  likewise  inclosed  a  Letter 
to  the  Lords  Comm?  for  Trade  and  Plantations 
wherein  We  have  answered  their  Demand  relating 
to  any  Act  of  this  Colony  laying  Duties  or  Imposi- 
tions on  the  Trade  or  Shipping  of  Great  Britain  Or 
any  Goods  Wares  or  Merchandizes  whatsoever  Hav- 
ing no  Duty  at  all  here  either  Inward  or  Outward.^ 

We  might  Once  more  press  You  to  use  your  ut- 
most Efforts  against  the  passing  any  Bill  upon  the 
Resolutions  of  the  Lords  relating  to  the  sending 
home  our  Laws  for  the  Royal  Approbation  &c  And 
as  to  what  You  write  about  the  Augmentation  of 
your  Salary  The  General  Assembly  do  not  seem  to 
incline  to  come  into  that  Method  But  are  willing  to 
allow  You  a  handsom  Gratuity  upon  the  Conclusion 
of  this  Affair  against  the  Province,  And  You  need 
not  be  under  any  Apprehension  of  being  served 
now  As  You  write  You  was  upon  the  Determination 
of  the  Connecticut  Boundary  They  being  very  unan- 
imous to  make  You  a  suitable  Compensation. 

When  You  send  any  Packet  again  on  the  Colo- 
ny's Affairs  of  any  Bigness  (Postage  now  running 
very  high)  We  desire  You'l  put  it  under  Cover  to 
My  Benjamin  Bagnell  Watchmaker  in  Boston  who 
will  take  Care  and  transmit  it  here  by  some  private 
Hand,  there  being  always  Oportunities  from  thence 
for  such  a  purpose. 

1  See  the  following  document.  2  See  preceding  letter. 


76  Correspondence  of  the 

In  the  last  Conference  of  the  Meeting  of  the  Com- 
missioners^ on  the  part  of  each  Government  at  New 
London  the  Committee  that  attended  for  the  Pro- 
vince for  the  Massachusetts  Bay  insisted  very  much 
that  they  had  made  a  Purchase  of  the  Lands  in 
Controversy  Which  We  allow,  For  our  Dispute  with 
them  is  not  for  the  Property  of  the  Lands,  But  only 
for  the  Right  of  Jurisdiction  And  therefore  thought 
proper  to  give  You  a  Hint  of  this  Not  knowing  but 
they  might  make  Use  of  the  same  Argum*  again  at 
home 

Sign'd  by  Ordl"  of  the  Gen!  Assembly 

John  Wanton  Govr 

To  Ml"  Richard  Partridge 
Merch'  in  London 


THE    GOVERNOR    AND    COMPANY    OF    RHODE    ISLAND    TO    SIR 
CHARLES    WAGER.2 

Hon'"  S'. 

The  Inhabitants  of  this  Colony  of  Rhode  Island 
and  Providence  Plantations  being  sensible  of  your 
Regards  and  Readiness  to  serve  them,  Which  You 

1  Commissioners  to  settle  the  disputed  boundary  line  between  Massachusetts  and 
Rhode  Island. 

2  Enclosed  in  Wanton's  letter  of  December  i.  Charles  Wager  was  the  nephew  of 
John  Hull,  a  London  merchant  who  removed  to  Newport,  and  by  whom  he  was 
adopted.  He  served  with  Hull  in  several  voyages  across  the  Atlantic,  and  his  gallant 
conduct  attracted  the  attention  of  friends  who  were  able  to  secure  him  a  post  in  the 
royal  navy,  where  he  ultimately  became  first  lord  of  the  admiralty,  and  a  member  of 
the  privy  council.  He  has  a  monument  in  Westminster  Abbey.  The  colony  of  Rhode 
Island  relied  much  in  its  suit  with  Massachusetts  upon  Wager's  local  knowledge,  as 
well  as  his  disposition  in  favor  of  the  home  of  his  adoption.  See  Weeden's  Economic 
History  of  New  England,  II.  6oo,  and  Sheffield's  Privateersmcn  of  Ncivport,  pp.  ii, 
42. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         'j'j 

have  been  pleased  to  demonstrate  at  all  Times 
when  Application  has  been  made  to  You  by  our 
Agent  (as  He  has  inform 'd  Us)  calls  for  our  grate- 
ful Acknowledgement  in  Return  thereof  which  I 
now  make  to  You,  Hon''!^  Sr  in  their  Behalf,  pray- 
ing a  Continuance  of  Your  further  Favours  as  there 
shall  be  any  Occasion  Yet  We  hope  that  Mr  Par- 
tridge will  not  at  any  Time  be  troublesom  in  wait- 
ing upon  You,  But  as  urgent  Necessity  shall  urge 
Him  to  it 

He  lately  informs  Us  likewise  That  upon  a  Peti- 
tion referred  from  His  Majesty  in  Council  for  a 
Supply  of  a  Number  of  Cannon  for  our  Fortification 
here  (Upon  the  Foundation  of  our  Address  a  few 
Years  since)  The  Lords  Commissioners  for  Trade 
and  Plantations  have  been  so  good  as  to  come  into 
a  Report  in  our  Favour  for  a  Grant  of  20  Cannons 
and  20  Shotts  for  each  Gun. 

This  comes  therefore  humbly  to  request  That  You 
would  be  pleased  to  favour  Us  so  farr  with  a  Contin- 
uation of  your  good  Offices  That  the  said  Report 
may  be  carried  on  to  effect,  which  will  be  a  very 
signal  Service  to  this  Colony,  who  have  within  a  few 
Years  past  been  at  the  Expence  of  ;^  15000  this  Cur- 
rency in  building  an  intire  new  and  regular  Fortifi- 
cation capable  of  mounting  50  or  60  Cannons,  Those 
We  have  had  hitherto  were  but  12  in  Number  and 
they  so  old  and  decayed  are  hardly  fit  for  any  Use, 
But  lately  We  have  got  24  Pieces  from  London  at 
our  own  Cost. 

And  considering  this  Colony  has  not  put  the 
Crown  hitherto  to  any  the  least  Expence  or  Charge 


y8  Correspondence  of  the 

for  its  Support  And  that  the  well  Fortifying  It 
against  any  Invasion  of  an  Enemy  will  be  of  great 
Consequence,  As  well  to  the  Neighbouring  Govern- 
ments more  imediately  under  the  Crown  as  to  the 
Government  it  Self,  We  humbly  hope  this  our  Re- 
quest will  be  the  more  readily  granted,  and  which 
will  lay  Us  under  Obligation  in  the  most  sensible 
and  dutiful  Manner  to  his  sacred  Majesty. 

I  hope  You  will  Excuse  the  Trouble  of  this  and 
heartily  salute  You  with  due  Respects 

In  behalf  of  the  Governour  and  Company  of  his 
Majesty's  English  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and  Pro- 
vidence Plantation  in  New  England  and  am  Hon''?^ 
S!  Your  most  obedient  and  most  devoted  humble 
Serv' 


Ja:  Martin  Secretary. 
To  the  Right  Hon^?^  S'  Charles  Wager 


Newport  on  Rhode  Island 
i'.'  October  1735 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    GOVERNOR    WANTON, 

London  12  mo.  the  6.  i73|. 
Gov"".  Wmiton 

I  have  reed  thine  of  the  iV  Decemf  last  with  the 
Papers  inclosed  ^  w'^''  doubtless  will  be  of  Service  to 
us  :  —  I  would  gladly  have  the  affair  of  that  Contro- 
versy brought  forward  to  a  Hearing  with  all  the 
expedition  that  well  could  be,  and  in  order  to  it  the 
Lords  of  Trade  have  been  duely  solicited  to  press 

1  See  preceding  letter. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         79 

the  Massachusets  Agent  for  his  answer  which  at 
length  he  has  deliv'?  in/  for  till  that  was  done  there 
was  no  such  thing  as  making  any  progress  at  that 
Board,  which  answer  I  Send  thee  herewith,  my  Soli- 
citor informs  me  it  contains  great  numbers  of  new 
facts  as  to  which  we  have  not  sufficient  Instructions 
hitherto  —  that  it  cannot  be  proper  to  move  for  a 
Hearing  until  such  time  as  the  Colony  Shall  have 
given  particular  information  and  taken  further  proofs 
w*''  relation  to  the  Matters  therein  contained,  and 
must  wait  your  further  directions  thereabout. 

I  see  the  disposition  of  the  Assembly  as  to  my 
Salary,  so  do  not  intend  to  give  them  any  further 
trouble  about  it. 

I  intend  to  take  a  proper  opportunity  to  wait  on 
Sir  C.  Wager  with  the  letter  but  doubt  it  is  too  late 
to  get  anything  done  in  that  affair  this  Year 

The  preliminary  Articles  for  a  Peace  between  the 
late  contending  Powers  at  War  ^  have  been  some 
time  since  agreed  on  and  it  is  not  doubted  but  a 
general  Peace  will  ensue  and  tranquility  restored  to 
Europe  which  is  doubtless  very  much  owing  to  the 
endeavours  of  the  King  of  Great  Britain.  I  am  Thy 
assured  Fr"^ 

RP  Partridge 

To  John  Wanton  Esq! 

Govern''  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plan- 
tations 

1  Arnold  gives  the  date  of  the  answer  of  Wilks,  the  Massachusetts  agent,  to  the 
petition  of  Rhode  Island  as  January  9,  1737.     History  of  Rhode  Island,  II.  117. 

2  The  war  of  the  Polish  succession.  England  and  Holland  submitted  a  plan  of 
pacification  which  was  finally  rendered  acceptable  to  France,  Austria,  and  Spain,  and 
signed  at  Vienna  in  1735. 


8o  Correspondence  of  the 

GOVERNOR    WANTON    TO    RICHARD    PARTRIDGE. 

Newport  Rhode  Island  ii'l'May  1736 

Yours  of  the  6^**  of  February  past  ^  came  safe  with 
the  Answer  of  the  Massachusetts  Agent  to  our  Com- 
plaint, of  which  We  shall  take  Care  and  fully  answer 
such  Matters  of  Fact  as  You  have  not  Evidence 
already  sufficient  for,  Having  ordered  a  Committee 
for  that  purpose  and  desired  to  make  what  Dispatch 
they  possibly  can. 

The  Assembly  only  met  this  Time  for  the  General 
Election  and  to  choose  their  Officers  both  Civil  and 
Military  throughout  the  Government,  and  adjourn 'd 
to  the  2"?  Monday  in  June  for  Business,  and  then 
You  may  expect  to  have  a  further  Supply  for  the 
carrying  on  this  Affair  according  to  your  Desire 
And  likewise  such  further  Instructions  as  will  be 
necessary  for  the  pressing  forward  this  Matter  to  a 
speedy  Determination 

Sign'd  in  Behalf  of  the  General  Assembly 

John  Wanton  Govf 

To  Mr  Richard  Partridge  Merch! 
In  London 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

London  xber  the  31.  1736 
Governour  Wanton 

I  received  thy  letter  dated  the  II*^  of  May  last ^ 

intimating  the  receipt  of  the  Massachusets  Agents 

1  See  preceding  letter.  2  See  preceding  letter. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         8 1 

Answer  to  our  Complaint  and  that  care  would  be 
taken  to  answer  such  matters  of  Fact  as  we  had  not 
already  sufficient  Evidence  for  &c  —  which  yet  are 
not  come  to  my  hands,  when  they  do  I  shall  with  my 
Solicitor  do  my  utmost  for  the  Service  and  Interest 
of  the  Colony,  but  at  present  all  things  relating  to 
that  dispute  lye  still  here  and  we  are  not  able  to  pro- 
ceed for  want  of  yo""  Reply. 

There  has  been  a  long  dispute  depending  between 
the  Massach*^  and  N.  Hampsh^  about  their  Boundaries  ^ 
and  at  length  it  results  after  this  manner  —  Com- 
mission? are  Nominated  by  the  Crown  to  examine 
into  the  Affair  and  as  I  think  to  fix  the  Bounds  or 
to  make  Report  of  their  Opinion  in  what  manner 
they  ought  to  be  adjusted,  the  number  of  Commis? 
are  Twenty,  viz  5  out  of  the  Council  of  Rhode  Island 
5  of  N.  York  5  of  N.  Jersie  and  5  of  Nova  Scotia, 
but  because  these  persons  are  appointed  by  the 
Crown  at  the  recommendation  of  the  L''.^  of  Trade 
the  Massachusets  Agent  if  I  am  rightly  informed 
intend  to  controvert  the  Nomination  in  as  much  as 
they  were  imposed  on  them  without  either  Province 
having  so  much  as  the  liberty  of  choosing  any  part 
of  them,  thus  I  thought  it  proper  to  give  thee  some 
hints  of  this  affair  and  as  they  proceed  in  it  thou 
mayst  expect  to  have  a  further  account  from  me. 
No  Govern^   absolutely  appointed  for   New  York^ 


1  A  detailed  account  of  the  dispute  and  its  settlement  is  given  in  Hutchinson's  Mas- 
sachusetts Bay,  II.  382-391,  where  the  statement  is  made  that  the  commissioners  were 
all  proposed  by  the  New  Hampshire  agent.     See  note  to  letter  of  gber  (November)  3, 

1738- 

2  Governor  Cosby  died  in  March,  1736.     Lord  Delaware  was  appointed  in  June, 

1737- 


82  Correspondence  of  the 

yet.  the  King  is  still  in  Holland  waiting  only  for  a 
fair  wind  for  his  Return  who  has  been  absent  this 
time  longer  than  usual. 

I  herewith  send  thee  sundry  Prints  for  thy  Amuse- 
ment and  with  kind  Respects  remain 

Thy  faithfull  fr^ 

RichP  Partridge 

the  Colony  may  depend  upon  the  ability  of  our  Solici- 
tor ^  whom  I  have  employd  in  the  affair  of  the  Bound- 
aries with  the  Massachusets  —  for  he  has  had  a  large 
Experience  in  things  of  that  kind  and  scarce  any 
equal  to  him  or  however  to  exceed  him :  he  is  the 
same  as  is  employd  for  N.  Hampsh'?  against  the 
Massach*^  and  by  the  Penns  of  Pensilv^  against  Lord 
Baltimore  —  about  their  Boundaries. 

To  John  Wanton  Esq 

Governour  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and 
Providence  Plantations 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON, 

London  3?  mo  the  5.  1737 
Govern''.  Wanton 

nothing  has  happend  here  since  I  writt  thee  last 
affecting  your  Colony,  all  things  lye  dormant  relating 
to  the  dispute  with  the  Massachusets  neither  can  any 


1  Ferdinando  John  Paris,  a  London  solicitor,  who  was  active  in  representing  vari- 
ous colonial  and  individual  interests  during  the  thirty  years  from  1730  to  1760.  Hutch- 
inson alludes  to  him  as  "  one  of  the  first  rate  and  who  had  a  peculiar  talent  at  slurring 
the  characters  of  his  antagonists.  Many  of  his  briefs  which  I  have  seen,  abound  in 
this  way."     History  of  Massachusetts  Bay,  II.  3S4. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         83 

further  proceeding  be  made  therein  till  I  have  a 
Reply  to  their  paper,  a  Copy  whereof  I  sent  thee 
some  time  since.^ 

This  Sessions  of  Parliam*  is  like  to  pass  over 
without  doing  any  thing  relating  to  the  Plantations 
in  general,  save  that  some  endeavours  have  been 
used  for  bringing  in  a  Bill  for  the  encouraging  the 
importation  of  pig  Iron  as  well  as  bar  Iron  from 
the  Plantations  and  for  putting  a  Stop  to  the  erect- 
ing or  making  for  the  future  any  Slitting  Mills,  in 
which  affair  they  proceeded  so  far  as  to  appoint  a 
Committee  who  met  often  upon  it  examind  several 
Evidences  and  at  length  brought  in  their  Report, 
but  yesterday  they  dropt  it  for  this  Sessions,  that  is 
it  was  put  off  for  6  weeks :  before  the  end  of  which 
time  the  Parliam*  will  break  up  —  whether  they  will 
resume  it  the  next  Sessions  time  must  discover, 
inclosed  I  send  thee  a  News  paper  w*'''  contains  some 
considerations  on  the  Subject  —  and  am  with  respects 
to  thy  Self  and  the  Gentlemen  of  the  Council 

Thy  assured  Friend 

RiCH^  Partridge 

To  John  Wanton  Esq 

Governour  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and 
Providence  Plantations. 


^  Arnold  says  that  on  October  27,  1737,  Partridge  presented  to  the  Board  of  Trade 
his  answer  to  the  memorial  of  the  Massachusetts  agent,  combating  his  positions  at 
great  length,  and  under  twenty  heads  of  reply.    History  of  Rhode  Island,  II.  118. 


84  Correspondence  of  the 

RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    GOVERNOR    WANTON. 

London  8*^'  the  18.  1737 
Governour  Wanton 

In  answer  to  thine  of  the  4^''  5*^  mo.  last  relating 
to  our  Solicitor  Paris/  Above  thou  hast  a  Copy  ^  of 
what  he  writt  me  on  that  head :  I  think  indeed  he 
might  have  acquainted  me  w*^  that  affair  w*"^  I  knew 
nothing  off  before,  however  I  am  fully  perswaded  he 
will  act  the  just  part  with  us  in  the  Affair  I  have 
employ 'd  him  in,  and  is  the  Same  Solicitor  the  New 
Hamps'?  Agent  employd  in  their  Business  against 
the  Massachusets  about  the'  Boundarys  between 
them,  wherein  as  I  take  it  he  has  had  Success,^  and 
I  thought  him  the  fitter  to  be  employd  for  us,  not 
doubting  but  he  may  be  depended  upon  to  do  his 
best  to  serve  us  —  alltho'  I  think  he  might  have 
spared  some  expressions  in  his  foregoing  answer 
I  am  with  due  Respects 

Thy  assured  Friend 

RiCH°  Partridge 

To  John  Wanton  Esq 

Governour   of    Rhode    Island   and    Providence 
Plantations 


1  See  notes  to  letter  of  Xber  (December)  31,  1736. 

2  See  the  following  document. 

8  The  commission  for  settling  the  New  Hampshire  boundary  was  issued  April  9, 
1737- 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         85 

F.    J.    PARIS    TO    RICHARD    PARTRIDGE.^ 

Sir 

At  my  return  to  Town  last  night  I  mett  your 
favour  of  the  20'.^  of  last  month  in  relation  to  M' 
M?Sparrans  Affair,  and  take  this  first  opportunity  to 
acquaint  you  in  answer  thereto  that  I  did  write  such 
Letter  as  therein  enclosed  to  Mr^  Auchmuty,  and 
that  the  Contents  of  it  were  true,  and  particularly  it 
was  thought  very  strange  and  arbitrary  that,  for  the 
very  same  parcell  of  Land,  the  Colony  should  readily 
allow  M*"  Torrey  an  Appeal  to  the  King  but  refuse 
one  to  M'  M'^Sparran,^  and  I  am  still  of  Opinion  that 
had  M'  M'^Sparran  prosecuted  any  Complaint  as  ag* 
the  Colony,  for  it  and  other  irregularitys  in  his  Affair, 
they  could  not  have  been  justified.  But  I  was  very 
farr  from  inflaming  that  Affair,  or  endeavouring  to 
aggravate  matters.  On  the  contrary  my  Clyent  and 
my  self  both  sought  for  peace.*  The  Governor  seems 
to  think  strange  I  should  not  acquaint  you  of  this 
matter,  especially  as  I  am  employed  by  you  to  Sup- 
port the  Colonys  right  to  the  Gore,  but  I  believe 
upon  recollection  he  and  you  both  will  think  that 
those  two  different  matters  have  no  sort  of  relation 
each  to  the  other.     The  Colony  may  be  assured   I 


1  Enclosed  in  preceding  letter. 

2  Robert  Auchmuty,  agent  for  Massachusetts  in  the  boundary  case. 

3  The  reference  is  to  the  famous  case  of  the  Narragansett  Church  Lands,  in  which 
McSparran  was  plaintiff.  For  an  account  of  the  affair  see  Douglass's  Summary^  II. 
104  ;  Updike's  Episcopal  Church  in  Rhode  Island,  68-S2  ;  R.  I.  Hist.  Coll.,  III.  123  ; 
Hazeltine's  Appeals  from  Colonial  Courts,  in  the  Report  of  the  American  Historical 
Association  for  1894,  p.  340,  et  seq. 

*  Dr.  McSparran  went  to  England  in  June,  1736,  and  returned  in  August,  1737. 
Updike's  Narragansett  Church,  p.  191, 


86  Correspondence  of  the 

shall  render  them  the  most  faithfull  Service  in  rela- 
tion to  the  Gore,  As,  on  the  other  hand,  I  shall  think 
I  owe  the  same  Duty  to  Mr  M'^Sparran  in  relation 
to  his  matter. 

F.  J.  Paris 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

London  2*  mo.  29*  1738 
Govern''.  Wanton 

I  writt  thee  last  of  the  lo^**  and  I3'^  12  mo*  last, 
via  Boston,  since  which  I  have  had  none  of  thy 
favours,  and  now  I  can  inform  thee,  that  after  several 
appointments  of  the  Lords  of  Trade,  we  had  a  Hear- 
ing before  them  by  Councel  learned  in  the  Law  on 
the  25'^  and  28*^  Inst,  for  our  Collony  were  Counce*? 
Murray^  and  Clark,  the  former,  to  wit,  Murray  is 
allowed  I  believe  as  eminent  in  his  profession  as 
any  in  England  and  indeed  pleaded  excellently  well, 
during  the  course  of  the  proceedings,  I  observ'd  a 
disposition  in  the  Lords  for  advising  the  King  to 
appoint  Commissioners  to  adjust  (the  dispute  about 
the  Gore  of  Land)  between  the  two  contending 
Colonys  there  upon  the  Spott,  for  they  seem'd  to 
observe  from  what  was  argued  on  both  sides,  that 
they  did  not  agree  as  to  the  names  of  the  Rivers  or 
Places  about  the  Boundarys,  and  that  the  names  of 
them  differ'd  in  their  Spelling  or  being  written,  to 
what  they  were  formerly,  and  therefore  could  not  see 
it  was  possible  upon  considering  the  whole  to  decide 
it  here  —  and  yesterday  after  they  broke  up  I  went 

1  William  Murray,  Lord  Mansfield.    See  note  to  letter  of  February  21,  1743. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island          87 

to  their  Secretary  to  learn  if  I  could  what  would  be 
the  purport  of  the  Lords  Report  and  find  it  will  be 
as  I  apprehended  as  aforesaid,  that  is  for  appointing 
Commissioners  out  of  some  of  the  neighbouring 
Governments  which  is  what  the  Concel  for  the  Mas- 
sachusets  very  streniously  argued  against  and  oppos'd 
at  the  Hearing,  and  therefore  I  take  it  a  point  gained 
in  our  favour,  for  I  understand  Esqr  Wilks  intends 
to  oppose  the  Report  when  it  comes  to  the  Commit- 
tee of  Council  and  then  we  are  like  to  have  another 
Struggle,  so  that  this  as  usual  will  be  a  chargeable 
affair,  it  cost  me  40  guineas  bare  Councel  ffees  at 
these  2  days  of  Hearing.  I  hope  the  Colony  will 
soon  make  me  some  Remittance  and  in  the  mean 
time  nothing  shall  be  wanting  on  my  part  to  serve 
their  Interest. 

As  to  the  Sugar  Act,  that  being  now  expired,  the 
reviving  of  it  is  postponed  and  it  is  too  late  in 
the  Sessions  to  do  any  thing  in  it  this  Parliament. 

The  House  of  Commons  in  a  Committee  of  the 
whole  House  have  come  to  several  Resolutions  re- 
lating to  Iron  in  the  Plantations,  as  for  putting  down 
the  forges  and  Slitting  Mills  &c.  upon  which  con- 
siderable debates  arose  without  coming  to  any  con- 
clusion as  to  the  ordering  of  a  bill  to  be  brought  in 
and  adjournd  the  further  debates  to  the  2^  of  next 
month  but  as  there  is  so  great  an  opposition  to  it 
and  the  Sessions  like  to  break  up  in  about  2  weeks 
time  its  thought  it  will  drop,  the  Votes  wherein  the 
said  Resolutions  are,  I  send  thee  inclosed,  but  if  they 
should  conclude  to  bring  in  a  Bill  pursuant  thereto, 
we  intend  to  petition  to  be  heard  by  Councel 
against  it. 


88  Correspondence  of  the 

The  House  of  Commans  have  been  very  much 
taken  up  of  late  upon  the  Jamaica  Merch'.*  Com- 
plaints of  the  Depredations  of  the  Spaniards  ^  and 
have  examined  several  Witnesses  touching  the  plun- 
dering and  Captures  of  Ships  and  barbarous  usage 
of  the  Sailers  —  which  has  made  a  great  noise,  but 
its  thought  after  all  it  will  not  produce  a  War  with 
Spain  (tho'  I  confess  once  I  thought  it  could  hardly 
be  avoided)  for  our  Ministry  seems  to  be  for  using 
their  utmost  endeavours  to  have  matters  accomodated 
in  a  pacific  way  —  and  they  say  France  is  for  inter- 
posing their  good  offices  towards  it,  but  the  English 
seem  to  have  but  a  mean  opinion  of  their  mediation 
as  that  it  cannot  but  be  expected  they  will  be  partial 
in  favour  of  Spain,  however  preparations  are  mak- 
ing for  fitting  out  a  fleet  of  Men  of  War. 

I  was  in  the  House  of  Commons  when  Murray^ 
the  Councel  for  the  West  India  Merchants  Summ'd 
up  the  Evidence  and  proofs  relating  to  the  affair  and 
heard  the  debates  of  the  Members  thereupon,  some 
hints  whereof  I  comitted  to  writing  and  send  thee 
inclosed  for  thy  amusement  and  am  with  respects, 
Thy  assured  Friend, 

Rich?  Partridge 

3*  mo.  the  12.  1738 

Since  the  foregoing  the  L''.^  of  Trade  have  made 
their  Report  to  the  Lords  Committee  of  Council,  a 
Copy  whereof  I  send  thee  here  inclosed,  wherein  thou 

1  The  Assiento  of  1713  was  used  as  a  cloak  for  smuggling  operations  by  both 
English  and  colonial  traders.  The  claim  of  Spain  to  the  right  of  searching  suspected 
vessels  aroused  great  'popular  excitement  in  England,  which  resulted  in  the  war  of 
1739.     See  "  Debates  in  the  Senate  of  Lilliput,"  Gentleman's  Magazine  (1738). 

2  See  note  on  p.  86. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         89 

willt  see  they  are  for  having  Com?  appointed  in  the 
Neighbouring  Provinces  to  settle  the  Boundaries  or 
dividing  Hne,  but  we  expect  it  will  yet  be  controverted 
before  the  Lords  Comittee  by  the  Massach*^  Agent 
Fran!  Wilks.  alltho'  he  may  do  so,  yet  I  am  apt  to 
think  the  Report  will  be  agreed  to  by  the  Committee 
also  —  and  when  the  Board  of  Trade  come  to  a 
Nomination  of  the  Com?  I  shall  take  care  that  none 
of  them  be  appointed  out  of  the  Colony  of  Connecti- 
cut, as  I  suppose  they  on  the  other  hand  will  object 
ag^.'  New  Hampsh? 

The  Sugar  Bill  ^  w''.''  for  some  time  was  postpon'd 
is  now  like  to  be  renewed  for  7  years,  w''^  I  suppose 
was  principally  done  on  ace!  of  some  other  matters 
in  it  besides  what  related  to  the  high  dutys  on  For- 
eign Molosses  &c  imported  into  our  Plantations.  As 
for  opposing  it,  I  did  not  find  any  of  the  other  Agents 
woud  medle  in  it,  and  I  considd  the  Charge  wo^  be 
too  heavy  for  one  only  to  do  it. 

The  Iron  Bill  is  dropt  for  this  Session, 

Thine  as  before 

R^  Partridge 

To  John  Wanton  EsqT 

Governor  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plan- 
tations. 


1  The  provisions  of  the  Sugar  Bill  of  1733  were  three  years  later  extended  to  all 
ships  belonging  to  Great  Britain  (15  Geo.  II.  c.  33,  f.  5),  and  the  former  statute  was 
continued  by  successive  enactments,  the  last  bringing  it  to  September,  1785.  Stokes's 
View  of  the  Consiituiion  of  the  British  Colojiies  in  North  America  and  the  West 
Indies,  p.  38. 


90  Correspondence  of  the 

RICHARD   PARTRIDGE   TO  GOVERNOR  WANTON. 

London  3  mo.  20'?  1738 
Gov^.  Wanton 

AUtho'  the  House  of  Commons  have  come  to 
divers  resolutions  with  respect  to  their  Cramping 
the  Plantations  in  making  or  manufacturing  Iron,  yet 
when  a  Bill  was  brought  into  the  House  for  that  pur- 
pose and  read,  there  was  a  Negative  soon  put  upon 
it  and  consequently  thrown  out  or  dropt  intirely  for 
this  year,  which  Bill  as  it  was  Presented  to  the  House 
for  the  extraordinariness  of  it  obtaind  a  copy  of  it 
and  send  thee  herewith.* 

It's  very  probable  the  next  Sessions  of  Parliam* 
they  will  begin  upon  it  again  which  I  thought  proper 
to  hint  to  thee        from 

Thy  real  Fr'^ 

R?  Partridge 

this  day  the  King  came  to  the  House  of  Lords  and 
after  giving  the  Royal  Assent  to  severall  Acts  of 
parliam^  put  an  end  to  this  Sessions 

Iron  Bill. 

[1738.] 
A  Bill  for  Encouraging  the  Making  and  Manufacturing  of  Bar 
Iron  in  Great  Britain  and  preventing  the  Increase  of  Bar  Iron 
and  Iron  Manufacturers  in  the  Plantations. 

Whereas  the  making  of  Bar  Iron  in  Great  Britain  hath  of  late 
Years  greatly  decreased  and  the  Manufactures  made  from  Bar 
Iron  in  His  Majestys  Plantations  have  for  some  years  last  past 
greatly  increased  Now  for  preventing  any  prejudice  and  Incon- 

1  See  the  following  document. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island  91 

venience  that  may  thereby  ensue  to  His  Majestys  Subjects  and 
for  promoting  and  encouraging  of  Trade  and  Manufactures  with 
in  the  Kingdom  of  Great  Britain  Be  it  Enacted  by  the  Kings 
Most  Excellent  Majesty  by  and  with  the  Advice  and  Consent  of 
the  Lords  Spiritual  and  Temporal  and  Commons  in  this  present 
Parliament  Assembled  and  by  the  Authority  of  the  same 

That  from  and  after  the day  of No  Mill  or  Mills  for 

Slitting  of  Iron  or  any  Furnace  or  Furnaces  for  making  Steel 
shall  be  Used  Wrought  or  Employed  in  any  of  the  Plantations 
of  His  Majesty  His  Heirs  or  Successors  in  America     And  that 

from  and  after  the  said  day  of  No  Forge  or  Forges 

Bloomery  or  Bloomerys  Work  or  Works  for  making  of  Bar  Iron 
(other  than  such  as  were  made  erected  built  employed  and  Workt 

at  before  the  day  of  1738  shall  be  erected  built  used 

wrought  or  employed  in  any  of  the  said  Plantations     And  also 

that  from  and  after  the  said  day  of  One  thousand 

seven  hundred   and   No   New  or   Additional    Hearth   or 

Hearths  Wheel  or  Wheels  shall  be  made  erected  or  Set  up  in  or 
to  any  fforge  or  Forges  Bloomery  or  Bloomeries  now  standing 
and  in  Use  in  any  of  the  said  Plantations  And  it  is  hereby  far- 
ther Enacted  that  if  any  person  or  persons  shall  from  and  after 

the  day  of  One  thousand  Seven  hundred  and  

erect  build  and  set  up  or  cause  to  be  built  erected  or  set  up  in 
any  part  of  the  said  Plantations  any  Mill  or  Mills  or  either 
engine  for  Slitting  Iron  or  any  Furnace  or  Furnaces  for  making 
of  Steel  or  shall  use  work  or  employ  any  such  Mill  Engine  or 
Furnace  already  made  or  erected  in  and  for  Slitting  Iron  for 
making  Steel  respectively  every  person  or  persons  so  offending 
shall  for  every  such  Slitting  Mill  Slitting  Engine  or  Steel  Fur- 
nace so  to  be  erected  built  set  up  workt  or  employed  forfeit  and 
pay  the  sum  of  One  hundred  pounds  Sterling  and  shall  z\so  forfeit 
and  loose  all  the  Steel  and  Iron  to  be  made  and  Slitt  in  the  said 
Furnaces  and  Slitting  Mills  respectively  And  also  shall  forfeit 
and  pay  for  every  month  where  in  any  Iron  shall  be  Slitt  or  any 
Steel  shall  be  made  in  any  of  the  said  Slitting  Mills  and  Fur- 
naces respectively  the  Sum  of  fifty  pounds  Sterling. 

And  be  it  further  Enacted  that  if  any  person  or  persons  from 

and  after  the  day  of  One  Thousand  Seven  hundred 

and Erect  build  and  Set  up  or  Cause  to  be  erected  built 


92  Correspondence  of  the 

and  Sett  up  in  any  of  the  said  Plantations  any  new  fforge  or 
fforges  Bloomery  or  Bloomerys  Work  or  Works  for  making  of 
Bar  Iron  besides  such  as  were  built  erected  set  up  and  worked 

at  before  the day  of One  thousand  seven  hundred  and 

Thirty  eight  or  make  erect  and  build  or  Cause  to  be  made  erected 
and  built  any  New  or  Additional  Hearth  or  Hearths  Wheel  or 
Wheels  in  or  to  any  iforge  or  Bloomery  now  erected  built  Stand- 
ing and  being  in  any  part  of  the  said  plantations  every  person  so 
offending  shall  for  every  such  new  fforge  or  Bloomery  And  for 
every  new  Additional  Hearth  or  Wheel  so  to  be  made  erected 
built  and  Sett  up  respectively  as  aforesaid  forfeit  and  pay  the 
sum  of  five  himdred  pounds  and  shall  also  forfeit  and  loose  all  the 
Bar  Iron  to  be  made  in  at  or  by  means  of  such  New  and  Addi- 
tional fforges  Bloomerys  Hearths  Wheels  and  Works  respectively 
And  shall  also  forfeit  and  pay  for  every  month  wherein  any  Bar 
Iron  shall  be  made  at,  in,  or  by  means  of  any  fforge  Bloomery 
Hearth  or  Wheel  to  be  made  erected  and  set  up  Contrary  to  the 
Tenor  of  this  Act  the  Sum  of  fifty  pounds 

And  it  is  hereby  farther  Enacted  by  the  Authority  aforesaid 
That  all  the  penalties  and  forfeitures  before  shall  and  may  be 
recovered  by  Action  Bill  Plaint  or  Information  in  any  of  his 
Majestys  Courts  in  such  of  the  Lands  Islands  Colonys  Planta- 
tions Territories  or  places  where  the  Offences  against  this  Act 
shall  be  Committed  or  in  any  Court  of  Record  in  Great  Britain 
at  the  pleasure  and  Option  of  the  person  or  persons  who  shall 
Sue  or  prosecute  for  the  same  wherein  No  Essoign  protection 
or  more  than  one  Imparlance  shall  be  allowed  and  that  upon 
all  such  Actions  Suit  and  Informations  the  Offences  may  be  laid 
or  alledged  to  be  in  any  Colony  Province  County  Precinct  or 
Division  of  any  of  the  said  Plantations  where  such  Offences 
are  Alledged  to  be  Committed  at  the  pleasure  of  the  person  or 
persons  who  shall  Sue  and  prosecute  the  same  And  That  one 
Moiety  or  half  part  of  the  said  penalties  and  forfeitures  shall  go 
and  belong  to  the  Governor  Deputy  Governor  or  Commander  in 
Chief  residing  in  the  Island  Colony  Plantation  Territory  or  place 
where  the  Offence  shall  be  Committed  And  the  other  Moiety  to 
the  person  or  persons  who  shall  Sue  and  prosecute  for  the  same. 

And  that  each  and  every  Governor  Deputy  Governor  or  Com- 
mander in  Chief  of  any  of  the  Lands  Islands  Colonies  places  or 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         93 

Territories  in  America  where  any  Slitting  Mill  or  Steel  fiurnace 
or  any  New  or  Additional  fforge  or  fforges  Bloomery  or  Bloom- 
erys  Hearth  or  Hearths  Wheel  or  Wheels  shall  be  erected  built 
made  Sett  up  wrought  or  employed  respectively,  contrary  to  the 
Tenor  and  true  Meaning  of  this  Act  is  and  are  hereby  Author- 
ized Impowered  directed  and  required  upon  Information  to  him 
and  them  respectively  made  and  given  upon  the  Oath  of  any  two 
or  more  Credible  Witnesses  if  any  such  Slitting  Mill  or  Steel 
ffurnace  or  New  or  Additional  fforge  or  fforges  Bloomery  or 
Bloomeries  Hearth  or  Hearths  Wheel  or  Wheels  being  made 
erected  built  set  up  wrought  or  employed  contrary  to  the  tenor 
and  true  Meaning  of  this  Act  And  which  Oath  such  Governor 
Deputy  Governor  or  Commander  in  Chief  is  and  are  hereby 
Authorized  and  required  to  Administer  to  Order  and  direct  and 
Cause  the  same  respectively  to  be  pulled  down  demolished  and 
destroyed  within  the  space  of  three  months  next  after  such  Infor- 
mation given  as  aforesaid  And  if  any  Governor  Deputy  Governor 
or  Commander  in  Chief  shall  Neglect  or  Refuse  so  to  do  within 
the  time  hereinbefore  Limitted  for  that  purpose  Or  in  any  Case 
any  Governor  Deputy  Governor  or  Commander  in  Chief  of  any 

of  the  said  plantations  in  America  from  and  after  the day 

of One  Thousand  Seven  hundred  and  thirty  eight  be  con- 
cerned in  any  of  the  Slitting  Mills  Steel  Furnaces  fforges  and 
Bloomeries  or  other  Works  intended  to  be  Restrained  prohibited 
or  prevented  from  being  built  or  erected  or  wrought  by  this  Act 
or  in  any  share  and  profits  of  in  or  out  of  the  same  every  such 
Governor  Deputy  Governor  or  Commander  in  Chief  so  offending 
shall  for  any  such  Offence  be  removed  from  and  forfeit  his  Office 
place  or  Goverriment  afid  shall  also  forfeit  and  pay  the  Sum  of 
One  thousand  pounds  Sterling  to  be  recovered  by  the  ways  and 
means  herein  before  directed  and  prescribed  or  any  of  them 
whereof  One  Moiety  shall  go  to  his  Majesty  his  Heirs  and  Suc- 
cessors and  the  other  Moiety  to  such  person  or  persons  as  shall 
prosecute  and  Sue  for  the  Same  And  shall  from  thenceforth  be 
rendred  incapable  of  holding  or  enjoying  any  place  of  Trust 
or  profit  under  his  Majesty  his  Heirs  or  Successors  And  it  is 
hereby  farther  Enacted  That  if  any  person  or  persons  shall  at 
any  time  be  sued  or  prosecuted  for  any  thing  by  him  or  them 
done  in  pursuance  and  Execution  of  this  Act  he  or  they  may 


94  Correspondence  of  the 

plead  the  General  Issue  and  give  this  Act  in  Evidence  And  if  a 
Verdict  pass  for  the  Defendant  or  Defendants  or  the  plaintifT  be 
Non  Suit  or  forbear  prosecution  The  Defendant  shall  have  Treble 
Costs  to  be  recovered  as  in  other  Cases  where  Costs  are  given 
by  Law  to  Defendants  And  it  is  hereby  farther  Enacted  and 
Declared  That  this  Act  shall  be  deemed  and  taken  to  be  a  pub- 
lick  Act  and  all  Judges  and  Justices  shall  take  Notice  thereof  as 
such  without  Specially  pleading  or  Setting  forth  the  same 
vera  Copia 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    GOVERNOR    WANTON. 

London  4'!'  mo  :  the  21'.'  1738 
Governor  Wanton 

My  last  to  thee  was  of  the  16.  Instant  per  Cap* 
Bonner  via  Boston  to  which  I  refer,  this  comes  now 
to  bring  thee  a  Copy  of  the  MassacM'  Agents  Pet"  ^ 
to  the  King  in  Council  in  relation  to  the  Lords  of 
Trades  Report  touching  the  Bounds  between  them 
and  the  Colony  —  this  Petition  is  newly  lodgd  at  the 
Council  Office  and  is  to  be  presented  the  next  gen- 
eral Council  day  when  it  will  of  Course  be  referrd  to 
the  Committee  who  will  as  usual  appoint  a  day  for 
considering  it  and  admit  the  Agents  to  be  heard  by 
their  Councel  for  and  against  it,  which  I  shall  push 
forward  with  what  expedition  we  can  :  I  should  be 
glad  of  a  few  lines  from  thee  who  am  with  respects 

Thy  assured  Friend 

Ricii^  Partridge 

I  herewith  send  thee  (with  some  News  papers)  a 
Copy  of  the  Speaker  of  the  House  of  Commons  his 

1  Praying  that  no  new  commissioners  be  appointed,  but  that  a  decision  be  rendered 
in  accordance  with  the  recommendation  of  the  Lords  of  Trade. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Isla^id         95 

Speech  to  the  King  in  the  House  of  Lords  at  the 
breaking  up  the  Sessions  of  Parliam'  w*"^  is  what  we 
can  scarce  ever  or  very  rarely  obtain,  it  being  some- 
thing curious  I  send  it  thee  thinking  it  might  be 
acceptable. 

To  Governor  Wanton 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR    WANTON. 

London  6  mo.  the  \(ft  1738 
Governor  Wanton 

The  last  I  writt  thee  were  of  the  21^.'  and  27*!"  4 
mo.  last  since  w''^  I  have  not  had  any  of  thy  favours 
—  as  to  the  Afifair  of  the  Lords  of  Trades  Report^ 
(a  Copy  whereof  I  have  sent  thee)  nothing  can  be 
further  done  in  it  till  the  Committee  of  Council 
begin  to  sitt  again,  w*  its  thought  will  hardly  be  till 
some  time  in  Octof  next,  before  that  time  I  hope  to 
hear  from  thee. 

[T]  here  has  of  late  a  considerable  Number  of  Men 
of  War  put  into  Commission,  a  hott  press  for  Sea- 
Men  and  a  great  Stir  in  publick  about  the  contest  with 
Spain"  w''''  made  People  imagine  one  while  that  a  War 
was  just  going  to  breake  out:  but  after  all  they  now 
seem  to  be  of  opinion  that  Peace  will  be  maintaind 
and  that  what  we  are  doing  is  only  to  intimidate  the 
Spaniards  —  what  to  think  of  the  Consequence  I 
know  not.  time  must  make  manifest:  It  is  certain 
the  Nation  is  put  to  a  very  [great]  Expence  —  and 
if  there  by  the  publick    Tranquility  can  be  estab- 

1  See  note  on  p.  90.  2  See  note  on  p.  88. 


96  Correspondence  of  the 

lished,  the  Spaniards  bro'  to  reason,  that  is  to  make 
satisfaction  to  our  Injur'd  Merchants,  and  our  Trade 
to  the  West  Indies  securd  without  coming  to  Blows 
it  were  abundantly  best,  for  the  rest  I  refer  to  the 
publick  Prints  herewith  sent  and  remain  with  respects 

Thy  faithfull  friend 

Rich?  Partridge 
To  Governor  Wanton. 


JOHN    PEAGRUM    TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

Hon^  Sir 

The  Bearer  M^  Joseph  Wanton  is  Appointed 
Dep'?'  Collector  in  the  Room  of  M'  Lechmere  I  De- 
sire You  will  Administer  to  him  the  Oaths  Required 
by  Law  and  give  him  Your  Aid  and  Assistance  in 
the  Execution  of  his  Duty  as  it  may  become  Neces- 
sary I  am  w""  great  Respect 

Yo""  Hon"  Most  Hum"^  Serv' 

Jn.  Peagrum 
Boston  25  Aug"  1738 

To  the  Hon^'"  Jn°  Wanton  Esq""  Gov^  &c. 


GOVERNOR  BELCHER  TO  GOVERNOR  WANTON. 

Hono^l'  Sir 

I  duly  reef  your  Favour  of  28'!"  Ult°,^  and  com- 
municated it  to  His  Majesty's  Council  of  this  Pro- 
vince, with  the  Copy  of  the  Report  of  the  Lords  of 

1  In  the  August  session  of  the  Rhode  Island  General  Assembly  provision  was  made 
for  notifying  Governor  Belcher  of  the  report  of  the  Lords  of  Trade  to  the  Lords  of 
the  Committee  of  Council.     Col.  Rec.  of  R,  /.,  IV.  547. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         97 

Trade  respecting  the  Disputed  Boundary  between 
this  Province  and  your  Colony,  a  Copy  of  which  the 
Agent  of  this  Province  had  transmitted  some  time 
ago ;  and  His  Majesty's  Council  here  are  of  opinion, 
as  this  is  only  a  Report  of  the  Lords  of  Trade  not 
acted  upon  by  the  Right  Hono^f^  the  Lords  of  His 
Majesty's  most  Honourable  Privy-Council,  nor  any 
Order  of  the  King  made  out  in  the  matter,  that  it 
can  be  no  Direction  to  the  several  Governments; 
however  they  are  very  much  inclin'd,  and  so  am  I, 
to  do  every  thing,  that  may  have  a  Tendency  to 
Peace  and  good  Neighbourhood  between  the  two 
Governments.  And  when  the  Assembly  meets  here, 
your  Letter  shall  be  laid  before  them,  that  the  whole 
Legislature  may  make  out  an  Order  for  quieting  the 
Borderers  on  the  Line,  'till  there  may  be  a  final 
Settlement,  which  I  desire  you  to  press  your  Agent 
to  expedite,  and  the  Agent  of  this  Province  will  be 
instructed  in  Conformity. 

I  am  Sir,  Your  Honour's 

Most  Obedient  Humble  Servant 

J.  Belcher 

Boston  Septr.  ii'l'  1738. 

Govr  Wanton. 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

London  (f?  3?  1738 
Governor  Wanton 

My  last  to  thee  was  of  the  I9*^  6  mo.  last  via  Bos- 
ton per  Cap'  Morris  wherein  I  omitted  thro'  forget- 
fulness  acknowledging  the  receipt  of  thine  dated  the 


98  Correspondence  of  the 

16.  May  last  per  John  Bannister  which  I  duely  had 
by  him  —  and  it  was  a  satisfaction  to  me  to  see  that 
my  good  Friends  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island 
were  not  uneasy  at  my  being  engaged  for  the  Massa- 
chusets  in  the  Affair  of  their  Boundaries  with  New 
Hampsh'/ 

And  now  as  to  the  Matter  that  relates  to  the  dis- 
pute w^*"  the  Massachusets  about  the  Gore  of  Land : 
agreeable  to  what  I  heretofore  Writt  thee,  their 
Agent  Wilks  did  Petition  against  the  Lords  of 
Trades  Report^  some  time  since,  and  at  the  very 
first  Sitting  of  the  Lords  Committee  of  Council  this 
Season  our  Solicitor  made  a  motion  that  it  might  be 
brought  on  to  a  Hearing  as  soon  as  their  LordShips 
wo^  admit  of  it,  which  accordingly  was  agreed  to,  and 
the  ist  Instant  appointed  for  that  purpose.  In  w'^*' 
Cause  we  had  for  our  Counsel  the  famous  Counselor 
Murray  and  Counf  Clark  wherein  to  do  them  Justice 
they  acted  their  parts  as  well  (I  think)  as  it  was  pos- 
sible for  Men  to  do,  urging  pretty  much  the  Same 
Arguments  as  they  did  before  the  Board  of  Trade ; 


1  See  note  to  letter  of  Xber  31,  1736.  The  settlement  of  the  New  Hampshire-Mas- 
sachusetts boundary  question  was  long  delayed  by  disputes  between  the  parties  inter- 
ested as  to  the  appointment  and  method  of  procedure  of  a  Boundary  Commission, 
issued  April  9,  1737.  The  New  Hampshire  parties  felt  deeply  aggrieved  by  the 
political  intrigues  of  Governor  Belcher,  in  the  Massachusetts  interest,  and  presented 
to  the  King  a  petition  (September  6,  1737)  embodying  the  facts  at  issue.  A  counter- 
petition  was  presented  "  about  the  9th  of  October,  173S,"  by  Francis  Wilks  and  Richard 
Partridge,  of  London,  Merchants,  (as  Agents  for  the  said  Governour  and  the  Council  and 
assembly  of  the  Massachusetts  Bay)."  A  circumstantial  account  of  the  matter  down 
to  i740(r.  is  given  in  a  petition  to  the  Crown  presented  by  John  Thomlinson,  Agent  for 
New  Hampshire,  praying  for  the  removal  of  Governor  Belcher.  New  Hampshire 
Prcn'ince  Papers,  V.  921.  The  matter  was  not  finally  adjusted  until  March,  1740,  by 
a  decree  of  the  Privy  Council,  which  gave  New  Hampshire  a  territory  even  more 
extensive  than  that  she  had  claimed.     Palfrev,  History  of  New  England,  IV.  558 

2  See  note  on  p.  96. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         99 

And  upon^  the  whole  the  Lords  Committee  agreed 
to  confirm  that  Boards  Report  and  that  a  Commis- 
sion sh^  Issue  to  appoint  Commissioners  accordingly, 
which  Resolution  of  theirs  is  to  be  reported  to  the 
King  in  Council  and  from  thence  Directions  will  be 
given  to  the  Lords  of  Trade  to  nomminate  proper 
persons  and  to  prepare  the  Commission  :  and  when 
that  is  about,  we  shall  duely  attend  for  that  purpose, 
takeingdue  care  that  Suitable  Persons  be  appointed; 
and  this  I  hope  will  meet  with  the  approbation  of 
the  Colony  for  I  can  assure  them  nothing  was  want- 
ing nor  any  pains  Spared  on  our  parts  to  Serve  their 
Interest  therein,  and  it  was  as  much  as  our  Solicitor 
and  mySelf  were  able  to  bring  about  towards  for- 
warding the  Completion  of  this  Dispute. 

for  public  News  I  refer  to  the  Publick  Prints  here- 
with Sent  thee,  hopeing  by  the  next  Ship  from  Bos- 
ton I  shall  have  the  pleasure  of  hearing  from  thee 
with  a  Supply  according  to  my  former  Request,  in 
the  mean  time  I  remain  with  due  Respects  to  thy- 
Self  and  the  Gentlemen  of  the  Council  and  house  of 
Representatives 

Their  faithfull  ffriend 

RiCH^  Partridge 

The  Lords   Committee  present   at   this  Hearing 
were     Lord  President 
Lord  Abercorn 
Lord  Monson 
Lord  Ch  :  Justice  Willes 
and  the  Speaker  of  the  House  of  Commons 

To  Governor  Wanton 


lOO  Correspondence  of  the 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    GOVERNOR    WANTON. 

London  12'."  mo.  the  10. 173I 
Governor  Wanton 

This  brings  thee  an  Order  of  Council  for  Com- 
missioners to  be  appointed  to  mark  out  the  Dividing 
Line  &c.  between  Rhode  Island  and  the  Massachu- 
sets  respecting  the  Gore  of  Land  in  dispute,  as  also 
Copys  of  the  Lords  Committee  of  Councils  Report 
agreeable  to  the  Board  of  Trades  Report  for  appoint- 
ing Commissioners. 

and  of  an  Order  of  the  Lords  Committees  to  the 
Board  of  Trade  to  return  the  Names  of  proper  per- 
sons for  Comm?  to  setle  the  Boundaries. 

and  of  the  Report  ^  of  the  Board  of  Trade  conform- 
able thereto. 

and  of  an  Order  of  the  King  in  Council  for  Peti- 
tioners to  give  Security  to  pay  Costs  as  may  be 
awarded  for  the  future. 

all  which  are  Expensive  but  there's  no  avoiding  it, 
and  I  do  assure  thee  I  have  left  nothing  undone 
hitherto  on  my  part  for  the  Service  of  the  Colony 
that  I  judgd  would  make  for  their  advantage,  and  I 
doubt  not  but  my  Endeavours  will  meet  with  their 
Approbation,  it  being  impossible  as  I  apprehend  to 
have  done  more. 

The  next  Thing  to  be  done  is  to  get  the  Commis- 
sion Issued  which  as  my  Solicitor  informs  me  wo^ 
come  to  about  ^120  —  ster^  under  the  great  Seal; 
On  consideration  of  which  I  proposd  we  sh*^  have  it 
Issued  only  by  an  Order  from  the  King  in  Council 

1  See  the  following  document. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        loi 

by  consent  on  both  sides  to  save  the  Exorbitant 
Expence,  which  Lord  President  on  our  Application 
does  not  oppose,  provided  Agent  Wilks  in  Person 
signifys  his  full  consent  thereto,  which  I  do  not 
doubt  off,  and  therefore  hope  it  will  go  in  that  man- 
ner. 

By  Lord  Presidents  direction  the  Comm'^  Names 
have  been  laid  before  the  King  in  Council  the  17. 
ult  and  the  Order  thereon  has  been  drawn  up  and 
deliverd  out  but  last  night,  In  my  next  thou  mayst 
expect  a  Copy  of  it. 

The  Parliament  are  now  sitting  having  begun 
their  Sessions  the  ist  Instant  and  herewith  I  send 
thee  the  Kings  Speech  and  Commons  Address. 

The  apprehensions  there  was  of  a  War  seem  all  to 
be  blown  over  and  as  for  other  News  I  refer  to  the 
Prints  here  inclosed,  and  remain  with  due  Respects 
to  thySelf  and  the  Gentlemen  of  the  Council  and 
House  of  Representatives 

Their  ffaithful  ffriend 

Rich?  Partridge 

If  the  Parliament  sW  take  in  hand  again  this  Ses- 
sions the  matter  of  the  Iron  Bill  as  heretofore  (as  I 
believe  they  will)  and  I  sh'^  Joyn  in  opposing  it, 
it  will  doubtless  be  attended  with  Considerable 
Expence. 

To  Govr  Wanton 


I02  Correspondence  of  the 


THE  LORDS  OF  TRADE  TO  THE  LORDS  OF  THE  PRIVY 
COUNCIL.^ 

To  the  Right  Honourable  the  Lords  of  the  Committee 

of  His  Majesty s  most  Hojioble  Privy  Council. 
My  Lords 

Pursuant  to  your  Lordships  Order  of  i'*  Instant 
We  have  considered  of  Proper  Persons  to  be  ap- 
pointed Commissioners  for  marking  out  and  Settling 
the  Dividing  Line  between  the  Province  of  the  Mas- 
sachusets  Bay  and  Rhode  Island  Eastward  and  for 
that  Service  We  take  leave  to  name  Your  Lordships 
the  five  Eldest  Councillors  of  the  three  Neighbour- 
ing Provinces  namely 

Cadwallader  Colden,  Abraham  Vanhorn  Philip 
Livingston  Archibald  Kennedy  and  James  De  Lan- 
cey  Esq"  for  the  Province  of  New  York  — 

John  Hamilton  John  Wells  John  Reading  Cor- 
nelius Vanhorn  and  William  Provost  Esq"  for  the 
Province  of  New  Jersey  — 

William  Skene  William  Shirriff  Henry  Cope  Eras- 
mus James  Philipps  and  Otho  Hamilton  Esq"  for  the 
Province  of  Nova  Scotia  which  last  Gentleman  We 
have  Substituted  in  the  place  of  Major  Paul  Masca- 
rine  who  was  formerly  left  out  by  Your  Lordships 
Order  on  a  like  Occasion  because  he  had  an  Estate 
in  the  Province  of  the  Massachusets  Bay 

We  take  leave  further  to  acquaint  Your  Lordships 
that  we  have  been  attended  by  the  Agents  of  the 
said  Provinces  of  the  Massachusets  Bay  and  Rhode 

1  Enclosed  in  the  preceding  letter. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       103 

Island  who  have  No  Objection  to  the  said  Nomina- 
tion. 

We  are  My  Lords 

Your  Lordships  Most  Obedient  and 
Most  humble  Servants 

MONSON 

M  Bladen 
R  Plumer 

Whitehall  Decern!  21st  1738 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR    WANTON. 

London  12  mo.  the  12.  1738 
Governor  Wanton 

This  is  just  to  acquaint  thee  I  have  writ  thee  of 

the  10'!'  Inst  by  Cap^  Newell  to  which  I  refer  thee. 

We  are  now  about  geting  the  Commission  or  Order 

of  the  King  in  Council  for  constituting  the  Comm?  for 

setling  the  Boundary  line  as  fast  as  we  can  and  when 

it  is  ready  Shall  send  it  thee  Who  am  with  respects 

Thy  assured  Friend 

RP  Partridge 

To  John  Wanton  Esq  Governor  of  Rhode  Island 
and  Providence  Plantations 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    GOVERNOR    WANTON. 

London  if  mo.  the  15.  173I 
Governor  Wanton 

I  writ  thee  last  of  the  ^^  Inst  per  Cap!  Harrison 
who  sailed  through  the  Downs  the  id-^  Inst;  since 
which  our  Petition  for  an  Order  of  Council  to  be 
issued  instead  of  a  Commiss".  to  save  charges  (as  I 


I04  Correspondence  of  the 

heretofore  hinted  to  thee  was  intended  to  be  done,) 
has  been  laid  before  the  Lords  Committee,  but  their 
Lordships  did  Not  think  it  proper  it  sh"^  pass  —  after 
that  manner,  —  so  that  now  there  is  no  other  way 
for  us  but  by  procuring  a  Commiss"  under  the  great 
Seale  w''''  my  Solicitor  tells  me  will  amount  to  about 
^135  sterl^  besides  his  trouble  therein,  which  as  we 
are  the  Complainants  and  consequently  sue  out  the 
Commission  we  must  advance,  but  then  the  Lords  of 
the  Council  afterwards  would  certainly  order  the  Mas- 
sach^^  to  pay  one  half  of  it ;  and  yesterday  I  went  to 
Agent  Wilks  to  know  of  him  if  he  wo'^  advance  half 
the  money  for  sueing  out  the  Commiss"  but  could 
get  no  promise  from  him  that  he  would,  and  there- 
fore I  judgd  it  most  prudent  first  of  all  to  give  thee 
notice  thereof  in  order  for  my  further  Instructions, 
before  I  laid  out  so  considerable  a  Sum  of  money. 
The  like  Sum  of  ^135  I  find  has  been  laid  out  of 
Pocket  by  our  SoU  for  New  Hamps!"  and  he  has  not 
been  able  to  get  the  half  of  it  advanced  for  the  other 
Province  in  to  this  day,  tho'  I  am  apt  to  think  it  will 
be  paid  in  time. 

I  send  thee  herewith  a  Copy  of  a  Pet"  ^  prepared 
in  order  to  sue  out  a  Commiss?  with  Articles  an- 
nexed suitable  thereto  which  now  must  lye  by  a 
while  in  expectation  of  the  Colonys  answer 

Inclosed  I  also  send  thee  my  ace'  w""  the  Colony 
the  Ball"  whereof  appears  to  be  ;^94 :  7 :  i  St'  in  my 
favour,  and  I  doubt  not  of  Sufficient  Supplys  from 
them  as  usual  to  enable  me  to  carry  on  their  affairs 
So  w""  due  Respects  to  thySelf  and  the  Gentlemen 

1  Not  in  the  archives. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        105 

of  the  Council  and  Representatives  I  remain     Thy 
ffaithfull  ffriend 

Rich?  Partridge 
yesterday   the    Princess   of  Wales  was  deliv'l   of 
another  Son  for  a  further  ace*  I  refer  to  the  inclosed 
Print 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO   GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

London  2*  mo.  the  10'.''  1739 
Governor  Wanton 

I  have  had  none  of  thy  favours  for  a  pretty  while 
and  having  lately  writ  thee  the  needfull  about  the 
Colonys  Affair  refer  thee  thereto, 

this  now  comes  to  acquaint  thee  that  there  is  like 
to  be  a  Bill  brought  into  Parliam*  relating  to  Iron  a 
Copy  whereof  I  have  obtained  and  Send  it  thee  here 
inclosed,  its  thought  it  will  pass  this  Sessions. 

alltho'  some  part  of  it  is  for  encourageing  the 
making  of  Iron  in  the  Plantations,  yet  other  parts 
of  it  will  be  prejudicial  and  therefore  I  was  [at]  once 
for  opposing  it,  but  could  not  find  any  were  for  joyn- 
ing  with  me,  in  as  much  as  it  is  not  by  abundance 
so  bad  as  the  Bill  that  was  prepard  last  year  on  that 
head,  and  so  thought  we  had  better  let  this  pass  as  it 
is  without  opposition,  than  to  run  the  hazard  of  hav- 
ing an  other  imposed  on  us  a  great  deal  worse. 

I  thought  it  my  duty  to  give  thee  this  early  notice 
of  it  who  am  with  due  respects 

Thy  assured  Friend 

RiCH°  Partridge 

To  John  Wanton  Esq  Governor  of  Rhode  Island 
and  Providence  Plantations 


io6  Correspondence  of  the 

RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

London  2?  mo.  27.  1 739 
Governor  Wanton 

I  writ  thee  of  the  15.  ult  per  Cap!  Fones  —  to 
which  I  refer,  this  now  serves  chiefly  to  bring  thee 
my  Solicitor  Paris's  Bill  for  the  Colony  for  what  he 
has  done  hither  to  amounting  to  ;^  128:  15  :  8  in  part 
whereof  I  have  pd  him  ^9-10-0.  at  several  times  w*^^ 
thou  willt  find  I  have  chargd  in  the  Colonies  ace!, 
besides  Counsel  fees,  so  that  there  is  yet  due  to  him 
^37:  15:  8.  not  doubting  of  being  Supplyd  with 
further  remittances  I  remain 

Thy  assured  Friend 

Rich?  Partridge 

I  sent  thee  per  Fones  my  ace!  the  Ballance  whereof 
was  then  ^94 :  7 :  i  in  my  favour 

To  John  Wanton.  Esq!  Governor  of  Rhode  Island 
and  Providence  Plantations. 


GEORGE    II.    TO    THE    GOVERNOR   AND    COMPANY    OF    RHODE 

ISLAND. 

Trusty  and  Welbeloved,  We  greet  you  well. 

Whereas  several  unjust  Seizures^  have  been  made, 
and  Depredations  carried  on  in  the  West  Indies,  by 
Spanish  Guarda  Costas,  and  Ships  acting  under  the 
Commission  of  the  King  of  Spain,  or  his  Governors, 
contrary  to  the  Treaties  subsisting  between  Us  and 
the  Crown  of  Spain,  and  to  the  Law  of  Nations,  to 

1  See  note  on  p.  SS. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       107 

the  great  Prejudice  of  the  lawful!  Trade  and  Com- 
merce of  our  Subjects ;  and  many  Cruelties,  and 
Barbarities  have  been  exercised  on  the  Persons  of 
such  of  Our  Subjects,  whose  Vessels  have  been  so 
seized  by  the  said  Spanish  Guarda  Costas  ;  And 
whereas  frequent  Complaint  has  been  made  to  the 
Court  of  Spain  of  these  unjust  Practises,  and  no  Sat- 
isfaction, or  Redress  been  procured ;  And  whereas  a 
Convention,^  for  making  Reparation  to  Our  Subjects 
for  the  Losses  sustained  by  Them,  on  account  of 
the  unjust  Seizures  and  Captures  abovementioned, 
was  concluded  between  Us  and  the  King  of  Spain, 
on  the  14th  Day  of  January  last  N.  S.,  by  which 
Convention  it  was  stipulated,  That  a  certain  Sum  of 
Money  should  be  paid,  at  London,  within  a  Term 
specified  in  the  said  Convention,  as  a  Ballance  due, 
on  the  Part  of  Spain,  to  the  Crown  and  Subjects  of 
Great  Britain ;  which  Term  did  expire  on  the  Twenty 
Fifth  Day  of  May  last,  and  the  Payment  of  the  said 
Sum,  agreed  by  the  said  Convention,  has  not  been 
made,  according  to  the  Stipulation  for  that  Purpose  ; 
by  which  means  the  Convention  abovementioned  has 
been  manifestly  violated,  and  broke  by  the  King  of 
Spain,  and  Our  Subjects  remain  without  any  Satisfac- 
tion, or  Reparation  for  the  many,  great,  and  grievous 
Losses  sustained  by  Them  ;  We  have  thought  fit,  for 
the  Vindicating  the  Honour  of  Our  Crown,  and  for 
Procuring  Reparation,  and  Satisfaction  for  Our  in- 
jured Subjects,  to  order  Reprisals  to  be  made  upon 
the  Crown  and  Subjects  of  Spain.  And  We  do 
therefore,  by  vertue  of  these  Presents,  authorise  and 

1  For  the  details  of  this  Convention,  see  the  next  document  in  the  series. 


io8  Correspondence  of  the 

empower  you  to  issue  forth,  and  granrt  Commis- 
sions of  Marque,  and  Reprisal  to  Any  of  Our  loving 
Subjects,  or  others,  who  shall  apply  to  You  for  the 
same,  and  whom  you  shall  deem  fitly  qualified  in  that 
behalf,  for  Arming  and  Fitting  out  private  Ships  of 
War,  for  the  Apprehending,  Seizing,  and  Taking  the 
Ships,  Vessels,  and  Goods  belonging  to  the  King  of 
Spain,  his  Vassals,  and  Subjects,  or  Any  inhabiting 
within  His  Countries,  Territories,  and  Dominions  in 
the  West  Indies :  Provided  always.  That  before  any 
such  Commission,  or  Commissions,  be  issued  forth, 
Security  be  given  upon  every  such  Commission,  as 
hath  been  used  in  such  Cases.  And  you  shall  insert 
in  every  Commission,  to  be  so  granted  by  You,  all 
such  Clauses,  and  give  such  Directions  and  Instruc- 
tions to  the  Person,  or  Persons,  to  whom  you  shall 
grant  such  Commission,  as  have  been  usual,  in  Cases 
of  the  like  Nature:^  And  for  so  doing  This  shall 
be  your  Warrant.  And  so  We  bid  you  Farewell. 
Given  at  Our  Court  at  Kensington  the  Fifteenth 
Day  of  June  1739.  in  the  Thirteenth  Year  of  Our 
Reign. 

By  His  Majesty's  Command. 

HoLLES  Newcastle.^ 

To  Our  Trusty  and  Welbeloved  the  Governor  and 
Company  of  Our  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and 
Providence  in  America: 


1  In  the  General  Assembly  of  August,  1739,  it  was  "Voted  and  resolved,  that  His 
Honor,  the  Governor,  grant  all  such  commissions,  in  behalf  of  this  colony,  to  private 
men  of  war  against  Spain,  and  the  subjects  thereof,  &c.  as  he  shall  think  needful  and 
necessary,  pursuant  to  His  Majesty's  Warrant."     Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  IV.  561. 

i  Secretary  of  State  for  the  Southern  Department. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       109 


THE    DUKE    OF    NEWCASTLE    TO    THE    GOVERNOR    AND    COM- 
PANY   OF    RHODE    ISLAND. 

Whitehall  June  is*  1739. 
Gentlemen, 

As  It  was  Stipulated  by  the  Convention,  concluded 
between  His  Majesty  and  the  King  of  Spain,  on  the 
14'?"  of  January  last,  N.  S.  That  the  Sum  of  ninety 
five  thousand  Pounds  Sterling  should  be  paid  at 
London,  within  the  Term  of  four  Months,  to  be  reck- 
oned from  the  Day  of  the  Exchange  of  the  Ratifi- 
cations of  the  said  Convention,  as  a  Ballance  due, 
on  the  Part  of  Spain,  to  the  Crown  and  Subjects  of 
Great  Britain  ;  and  as  the  said  Term  of  four  Months, 
from  the  Exchange  of  the  Ratifications  of  the  Con- 
vention, did  expire  on  the  25th  Day  of  May  last,  and 
the  Payment  of  the  said  Sum  of  Ninety  five  thou- 
sand Pounds  sterling,  agreed  by  the  said  Convention, 
has  not  been  made,  according  to  the  Stipulation  for 
that  purpose,  by  which  means  the  Convention  above- 
mentioned  has  been  manifestly  violated  and  broke, 
and  His  Majesty's  Subjects  remain  without  any 
Satisfaction  or  Reparation  for  the  many,  great  and 
grievous  Losses  sustained  by  Them,  His  Majesty 
has  thought  Himself  obliged  to  take  such  Measures, 
on  His  Part,  as  are  necessary  for  the  Support  of  the 
Honour  and  Dignity  of  His  Crown,  the  Security  of 
the  just  Rights  of  His  Subjects,  and  the  Good  and 
Safety  of  His  Dominions,  and  has  therefore  ordered 
the  Ships  and  Effects  of  the  King  of  Spain,  and 
His  Subjects,  to  be  seized  and  taken  wherever  They 
shall  be  met  with ;  with  which  I  am  commanded  to 


no  Correspondence  of  the 

acquaint  You,  that  You  may  cause  the  same  to  be 
made  known  in  all  Places  under  Your  Government, 
to  the  End  that  His  Majesty's  Subjects  in  those 
Parts  may  be  upon  their  Guard,  to  prevent  any  Mis- 
chief, they  might  otherwise  suffer  from  the  Span- 
iards, in  Revenge  for  the  Measures,  which  His  Maj- 
esty is  obliged  to  take,  to  do  Himself  and  His  Sub- 
jects Justice;  and  that  They  may,  in  their  several 
Stations,  annoy  the  Subjects  of  Spain  in  the  best 
Manner  They  are  able.  And  I  send  You  herewith, 
by  the  King's  Order,  His  Majesty's  Warrant,^  under 
His  Royal  Sign  Manual,  authorizing  and  empower- 
ing You  to  grant  Commissions  of  Marque  and  Re- 
prisal, for  arming  and  fitting  out  private  Ships  of 
War,  against  the  Ships,  Goods,  and  Subjects  of  the 
King  of  Spain.  And  It  is  His  Majesty's  Pleasure, 
That  you  should  be  very  rigorous  and  severe,  in 
preventing  any  Ammunition,  or  Stores  of  any  kind, 
from  being  carried  to  the  Spaniards ;  and  You  are 
to  use  all  proper  Methods,  that  may  be  most  effectual 
for  this  Purpose. 

I  am  Gentlemen 

Your  most  obedient  humble  Servant 

HoLLES  Newcastle 

Governor  and  Company  of  the   Colony  of  Rhode 
Island. 


1  See  the  preceding  document. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        1 1 1 


THE  LORDS  OF  TRADE  TO  THE  GOVERNOR  AND  COMPANY  OF 
RHODE  ISLAND. 

Whitehall  July  the  s*?  1739. 
Gentlemen^ 

We  send  you  herewith  Copies  of  two  Addresses 
from  the  House  of  Lords/  and  likewise  of  two  Ad- 
dresses from  the  House  of  Commons^  to  His  Ma- 
jesty, of  the  13'!"  of  the  last  Month,  and  desire  that 
you  will  for[th]with  prepare  and  transmit  to  Us  as 
soon  as  possible,  the  several  Accouts  therein  re- 
quired that  the  same  may  be  laid  before  the  respec- 
tive Houses  the  next  meeting  of  Parliament.  So  We 
bid  you  heartily  farewell,  and  are 

Your  very  loving  Friends  and  humble  Servants, 

MONSON 

T  Pelham 
R  Plumer 
J  A :  Brudenell. 

Hon*'!*  the  Gov'  and  Company  of  Rhode  Island. 


ADDRESS  OF  THE  HOUSE  OF  LORDS  TO  THE  CROWN.^ 

Die  Mercurii,  13?  Junii  1739. 

Ordered  by  the  Lords  Spiritual  and  Temporal  in 
Parliament  Assembled,  That  an  humble  Address  be 
presented  to  His  Majesty,  That  His  Majesty  will  be 
graciously  pleased  to  give  Directions  to  the  proper 
Officers,  That   an   Account  be   prepared,  and  laid 

1  See  the  next  two  documents.  2  Not  in  the  archives. 

8  Enclosed  in  letter  from  the  Lords  of  Trade,  of  July  5,  1739. 


112  Correspondence  of  the 

before  this  House  at  their  next  Sessions,  what  was 
the  Amount  of  the  Paper  Bills,  or  Bills  of  Credit, 
which  by  virtue  of  any  Act  or  Acts  of  Assembly 
Subsisted  or  passed  in  Payment  in  any  of  the  Brit- 
ish Colonies  or  Plantations  in  the  Year  1700.  And 
also  an  Account  of  the  Amount  of  what  Paper  Bills, 
or  Bills  of  Credit  of  any  species,  or  Kinds,  have  by 
Virtue  of  any  Act  or  Acts  been  created  or  issued 
in  any  of  the  said  Colonies  or  Plantations  since  the 
Year  1 700,  with  the  Amount  of  the  Value  in  Money 
of  Great  Britain,  of  such  Bills  at  the  respective 
Times  of  their  creating  and  issuing ;  and  what  Pro- 
vision was  made  thereby  for  the  sinking  or  dis- 
charging of  any  such  Paper  Bills,  or  Bills  of  Credit ; 
Together  with  an  Account  of  the  Amount  of  the 
Bills,  that  have  been  sunk  or  discharged  in  pursu- 
ance thereof,  and  also  of  the  Bills  subsisting  or  pass- 
ing in  Payment  at  this  Time  in  any  of  the  said 
Colonies  and  Plantations  with  the  Amount  of  the 
Value  in  Money  of  Great  Britain,  of  such  Bills ;  dis- 
tinguishing each  species,  or  Kind  of  Paper  Bills  or 
Bills  of  Credit  and  each  Colony  or  Plantation, 
sign'd 

Wm  Cowper,  Cler. 

Parliamentor. 


ADDRESS  OF  THE  HOUSE  OF  LORDS  TO  THE  CROWN.* 

Die  Mercurii,  13°  Junii  1739. 

Ordered  by  the  Lords  Spiritual  and  Temporal  in 
Parliament  Assembled  That  an  humble  Address  be 

1  Enclosed  in  letter  from  the  Lords  of  Trade,  of  July  5,  1739. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         113 

presented  to  His  Majesty,  That  His  Majesty  will  be 
graciously  pleased  to  give  Directions  to  the  proper 
Officers,  That  an  Account  be  prepared  and  laid 
before  this  House  at  their  next  Sessions,  at  what 
Rates  all  Gold  and  Silver  Coins  were  accounted, 
received,  taken  or  paid,  and  Gold  and  Silver  were 
Purchased  at,  or  Sold  for  per  Ounce,  in  any  of  the 
British  Colonies  and  Plantations  in  America,  in  the 
Years  1700,  17 10,  1720,  1730,  and  at  what  Rates 
Gold  and  Silver  Coins  are  accounted,  received,  taken 
or  paid,  and  Gold  and  silver  are  Purchased  at,  or 
sold  for  per  Ounce  at  this  Time  in  such  Colonies  and 
Plantations,  distinguishing  each  Colony  and  Planta- 
tion. 

sign'd 

W¥  CowPER,  Cler. 

Parliamentor. 


RICHARD   PARTRIDGE   TO   GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

London  5'."  mo.  10.  1739 
Gov''.  Wanton 

I  have  had  none  of  thy  favours  for  a  considerable 
time  but  I  hope  I  shall  by  the  next  Ship  that  arrives 
from  New  England. 

This  now  I  write  at  a  venture  to  meet  a  Ship  at 
Dover  bound  to  New  York  from  Holland  and  comes 
to  acquaint  thee  that  the  present  posture  of  Publick 
Affairs  seems  to  be  upon  a  Crisis  tending  to  War 
which  I  take  to  be  what  is  generaly  apprehended 
will  ensue,  and  that  its  thought  will  break  out  in  a 
little  time  between  this  Kingdom  and  Spain  with 
whom   France    will    undoubtedly  Joyn  (unless    any 


114  Correspondence  of  the 

thing  unforeseen  sh'*  intervene).  I  judg'd  it  therefore 
need  full  to  give  thee  some  hints  of  it,  great  prepa- 
rations has  been  for  some  time  making  here,  a  con- 
siderable Number  of  Men  of  War  are  fitting  out,  a 
Strict  Press  for  Seamen,  and  an  Embargo  on  Ships 
from  going  out  w':''  has  lasted  already  abo!  3  weeks 
and  when  it  will  be  off  we  know  not. 

If  a  War  sh^  be  the  Consequence  its  talkt  that  it 
will  begin  first  by  our  making  Reprisals  some  where 
on  the  Spaniards  in  the  West  Indies  or  by  Admiral 
Haddock  in  the  Mediterean,  and  this  Resolution 
seems  to  be  taken  by  our  Ministry  in  as  much  as  the 
Spaniards  delay  or  refuse  to  comply  with  the  Terms 
of  the  Convention  on  their  parts,  no  doubt  they  have 
been  encourag'd  therein  and  Matters  fomented  un- 
doubtedly by  the  French. 

They  say  the  Tartar  Man  is  lately  gone  to  Amer- 
ica which  probably  carry  some  Instructions  about 
these  Affairs  to  the  British  Governors  on  the  Conti- 
nent, for  the  rest  I  refer  to  the  inclosed  prints  and 
remain  with  due  respects. 

Thy  assured  Friend 

R.  Partridge 

To  John  Wanton  Esq. 

Governor  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plan- 
tations 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       115 


JOSIAH   WILLARD    TO    MESSRS.    PETER   BOURS,    GODFREY    MAL- 
BONE,    AND   JAMES    MARTIN.^ 

Gentlemen^ 

I  have  herewith  inclosed  a  Copy  of  the  Vote  of 
our  General  Assembly  for  appointing  Commis''.^  to 
treat  and  transact  with  Commiss'^^'  on  the  part  of 
your  Government  on  the  Affair  of  the  Boundaries. 
You  will  please  to  inform  me  or  Coll.  Dudley  (the 
Senior  Commisf  for  this  Service)  of  the  Result  of 
your  Assembly  hereon.     I  am  Gentlemen 

Your  most  obedient  Humble  Servant 

J.  WiLLARD 
Boston  July  16. 1739. 

Mess'.'  Peter  Bours,  Godfrey  Mallbone,  and  Ja. 
Martin. 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

London  6  mo.  the  10.  1739 
Worthy  ffrie^id 

The  foregoing  is  Copy  of  my  last  to  thee  since 
which  I  have  not  reed  any  letter  from  thee  so  have 
the  less  to  say  now :  our  Affair  relating  to  the  Gore 
of  Land  in  dispute  lyes  quite  still  till  We  have  fur- 
ther Instructions,  w'^*'  I  expect  to  receive  from  thee 
per  [the]  first  Ship  from  N  E  and  then  I  shall  not 
faile  to  pursue  them  in  the  best  manner  I  am  capa- 
ble off. 

1  A  committee  appointed  in  May,  1739,  "  to  write  to  the  General  Court  of  the  Pro- 
vince of  the  Massachusetts  Bay  "  concerning  "  the  affair  of  the  gore  of  land  in  contro- 
versy."   Col.  Rec.  of  R.  I.,  IV.  557. 


1 1 6  Correspondence  of  the 

I  herewith  send  thee  Copy  of  a  Bill  for  the  fur- 
ther enforcing  the  Sugar  Act  that  was  bro*  into  the 
last  Sessions  of  Parliament  but  it  was  dropt  and  did 
not  pass,  w'^''  as  I  take  it  wo*^  have  been  of  pernicious 
Consequence  to  the  Plantations :  whether  it  will  be 
revivd  or  not  next  Parliam'  we  know  not,  however  I 
judgd  it  proper  to  acquaint  the  Colony  with  it  to  let 
them  see  what  Some  People  here  aim  at ;  there  was 
a  Law  relating  to  the  Sugar  Trade  did  pass  which  I 
also  here  send  thee. 

Thou  willt  see  by  the  Votes  herewith  sent  that  the 
Parliament  are  for  having  an  ace*  of  the  state  of  Bills 
of  Credit  in  the  Plantations  ready  to  be  laid  before 
them  next  Sessions  w'^^  its  probable  they  call  for  in 
order  to  do  something  by  way  of  Regulation  and 
very  likely  thou  willt  receive  a  letter  from  the  Lords 
of  Trade  (among  others)  thereabout.^ 

As  to  War  it  is  not  actualy  broke  out  yet  and 
when  any  proclamation  for  that  End  will  be  Issued 
is  uncertain  after  all,  tho'  Great  Preparations  are 
still  continueing  to  be  made,  time  must  discover  the 
Event,  for  the  rest  I  referr  to  the  prints  I  here  send 
thee  and  remain  with  due  respects  to  thy  self  and 
the  Gentlemen  of  the  Council  and  House  of  Repre- 
sentatives 

Their  ffaithfull  friend 

RicH^  Partridge 

To  John  Wanton,  Esq 

Governor  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plan- 
tations 

1  See  letter  on  p.  120. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        1 1 7 

RICHARD   PARTRIDGE    TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

London  7""  the  5.  1739 
Governor  Wanton 

As  the  Publick  affairs  pretty  much  draws  the  At- 
tention of  People  respecting  a  War  at  this  juncture, 
so  I  judgd  it  necessary  now  and  then  to  advise  thee 
of  occurrances  of  that  kind  ;  and  to  send  thee  the 
inclosed  Prints  for  thy  information.  The  Spanish 
Ambassador  is  now  gone  away  home  for  Madrid 
having  left  behind  him  his  Masters  Manifesto  (w'^^ 
is  published  here)  to  justifie  their  Conduct  touching 
the  Breach  of  the  late  Convention,  the  fault  whereof 
they  wo^  throw  intirely  upon  the  English,  but  People 
here  seem  to  think  his  Arguments  are  weak,  frivilous 
and  easily  refuted,  And  whether  or  no  our  Ministry 
will  think  it  worth  their  while  to  answer  it  is  un- 
certain, and  now  a  War  that  is  a  Sea  War  seems 
unavoidable,  preparations  for  which  have  been  mak- 
ing here  for  a  considerable  time  so  that  the  English 
have  got  the  whip  hand  of  both  the  other  Powers 
they  are  to  be  engag'd  against,  for  the  rest  I  refer  to 
the  Prints  here  with  sent  and  remain 

Thy  assured  Friend 

Rich?  Partridge 

Our  Ministry  by  their  putting  at  sev'  times  so  large 
a  Number  of  Men  of  War  in  Commiss"  seem  to  be 
vigorously  intent  in  pushing  on  for  obtaining  satis- 
faction some  how  or  other  and  in  the  mean  time  for 
protecting  our  Trade  at  Sea  also. 

the  11'.'' :  1739 

Since  the  foregoing  I  have  reed  thine  dated  13 
July,  together  with  a  Packet  of  Papers  for  the  Agent 


1 1 8  Correspondence  of  the 

of  Conned  which  I  shall  deliver  him  accordingly 
and  observe  thy  further  directions  thereabout  when 
he  is  recov*^  of  his  illness  which  he  has  been  lately 
seiz'd  with.  I  note  some  endeavours  are  like  to  be 
used  for  accommodating  the  affair  w*^  the  Massach'.* 
if  that  could  be  done  there  it  w*^  to  be  sure  save  a 
great  deal  of  Expence,  but  if  it  sh^  not  take  Effect  I 
shall  readily  pursue  Such  further  Instructions  in  be- 
half of  the  Colony  as  I  shall  receive  from  thee  who 
am  with  kind  respects 

Thy  faithfull  friend 

R^  Partridge 
I  send  thee  the  King  of  Spains  Manifesto  and 
some  more  prints  in  a  pack*  to  B.  Bagnal  to  forw*^  to 
thee  I  take  kindly  the  favour  the  Colony  has  done 
me  in  honouring  my  late  draught  of  One  hund*^ 
Pounds 

To  John  Wanton  Esq!  Governor  of  Rhode  Island 
and  Providence  Plantations. 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    GOVERNOR    WANTON, 

London  8*."  the  5.  1739 
C^;'  Wanton 

My  last  to  thee  was  of  the  1 1*!"  ult  acknowledging 
the  rec*  of  thine  dated  the  13  July  last  with  the 
Papers  relating  to  Connecticut  for  their  Agent  Wilks, 
but  the  Indisposition  with  which  he  has  been  seizd 
of  late  prevents  my  attending  him,  when  he  recovers 
I  shall  not  be  wanting  to  pursue  thy  directions  there- 
about. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        119 

I  note  some  Overtures  have  been  made  with  the 
Massachusetts  about  accommodating  the  disputed 
Boundaries,  relating  to  the  Gore  of  Land,  if  that  co^ 
be  brought  to  bear  it  would  Save  the  Colony  a  pretty 
deal  of  Expence  here,  but  if  not  when  I  receive  thy 
Orders  I  shall  proceed  in  the  best  manner  I  can  for 
the  Colonys  Interest  which  they  may  be  assured  off 
as  I  have  hetherto  done. 

As  to  publick  News  Preparations  for  War  are 
vigorously  carried  on  still,  Our  Minister  Keen  lately 
returnd  home  from  Spain,  France  not  yet  declared 
against  us  neither  is  it  believd  they  will  in  hast,  for 
it  cannot  be  suppos'd  they  are  in  any  degree  so  far 
prepar'd  as  we  are  for  a  Rupture,  But  will  doubtless 
again  try  their  Skill  to  bring  about  an  Accommoda- 
tion by  way  of  Mediation  which  hetherto  our  Court 
don't  seem  much  to  regard,  judging  that  either  they 
may  have  some  Sinister  View  in  it  or  that  they  are 
naturaly  so  attach't  to  Spain  that  we  can  expect  only 
an  amuzement  and  no  good  from  their  Interposition ; 
Yet  if  there  be  any  probability  of  an  accommoda- 
tion its  possible  it  may  be  rather  expected  now  that 
there  is  Peace  lately  concluded  between  the  Turks 
and  Russians  as  well  as  between  the  former  and  the 
Germans,  for  that  as  the  Russians  are  look'd  upon 
as  our  good  Allys,  its  not  unlikely  (but  if  it  sh'^  be 
required  by  the  English)  they  wo^  afford  us  a  consid- 
erable Assistance  ag'.'  the  French,  and  that  consider- 
ation wo^  rationaly  keep  them  still  back  from  break- 
ing with  us  —  for  the  rest  I  refer  to  the  Inclosed 
Prints  and  remain  w*^  due  Respects  to  thy  Self  and 


1 20  Correspondence  of  the 

the  Gentlem"  of  the  Council  and  House  of  Repre- 
sentatives Thy  ffaithfull  Friend 

R?  Partridge 

To  John  Wanton  Esq! 

Governor  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plan- 
tations 


CIRCULAR   LETTER   TO   THE  GOVERNORS  OF    MARYLAND,  CON- 
NECTICUT, AND   RHODE    ISLAND. 

[1739] 

Sirs 

We  send  You  herewith  inclosed  the  Copy  of  an 
Address  of  the  House  of  Commons  to  His  Majesty 
in  the  last  Session  of  Parliament  by  which  You  will 
perceive  how  much  they  apprehend  the  Commerce 
of  Great  Britain  to  have  been  Affected  by  the  large 
and  frequent  Emissions  of  Paper  Currency  in  His 
Majestys  Colonys  in  America  in  which  Rhode  Island 

has  had  too  large  a  Share  ^  (the  words  Scored  under  to  be 
inserted  only  in  the  Letter  to  the  Gov!  of  Rhode  Island)  and  His 

Majesty  in  pursuance  of  the  said  Address  having 
sent  Circular  Instructions  to  the  several  Colonys 
more  immediately  under  His  Government  not  to 
pass  any  more  Bills  for  the  issuing  of  Paper  Money 
without  a  Clause  inserted  therein,  as  proposed  by  the 
said  Address,  to  Suspend  the  Execution  till  His  Ma- 
jestys Pleasure  shall  be  Signified  thereupon.  We 
think  it  proper  to  acquaint  You   therewith   and  at 

1  See  Partridge's  letter  of  6  mo.  10,  1739.     This  document  is  unsigned  and  marked 
Copy. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       121 

the  same  time  to  Admonish  and  Advise  you  to  pay 
all  due  regard  to  His  Majestys  Intentions  and  to  the 
sense  of  the  House  of  Commons  upon  this  Occasion. 
So  we  bid  you  heartily  farewell  and  are 
Your  very  Loving  Friends 
and  humble  Servants 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

London  8^"  the  26'?:  1739 
Gov''.    Wanton 

I  lately  writ  thee  per  Cap*  Seabrook  direct  to  Rhode 
Isl?  this  I  write  now  at  a  Venture  to  the  Downs  and 
Just  comes  to  bring  thee  one  of  our  News  Papers 
and  Proclamation  of  War  ag'*  Spain  which  was  pub- 
lishd  here  the  23'?  Inst;  as  to  France  People  here 
differ  in  their  opinion  whether  we  Shall  have  a  War 
with  them  or  not,  time  alone  must  discover  it :  I  am 
with  respects     Thy  assured  Fr^ 

R?  Partridge 


THE    DUKE    OF    NEWCASTLE    TO    THE    GOVERNOR    AND    COM- 
PANY   OF    RHODE    ISLAND. 

Whitehall  29'?  Oct!  1739 
Sir, 

I  am  to  acquaint  you,  that  on  Friday  the  19'!'  In- 
stant a  Great  Council  was  held  at  Kensington,  where 
His  Majesty  approved  and  signed  a  Declaration 
of  War  against  Spain,  and  ordered,  that  the  same 
should  be  published  on  Tuesday  the  23^  Instant  by 
the  Heralds  at  Arms,  in  the  usual  Places,  and  with 


122  Correspondence  of  the 

the  accustomd  Formalitys  on  the  like  Occasions, 
which  was  done  accordingly;  And  I  am  commanded 
to  send  you  a  printed  Copy  of  the  said  Declaration, 
and  to  signify  to  you  His  Majesty's  Pleasure,  that 
you  cause  it  to  be  proclaimed  in  the  Places  under 
your  Government,  that  His  Subjects  having  this 
Notice  may  take  care  to  prevent  any  Mischief,  which 
otherwise  they  might  suffer  from  the  Enemy,  and  do 
their  Duty  in  their  several  Stations  to  annoy  the  Sub- 
jects of  Spain ;  And  His  Majesty  would  have  you  be 
very  rigorous  and  severe  in  preventing  any  Ammu- 
nition or  Stores  of  any  kind  from  being  carried  to 
them ;  And  you  are  to  use  all  proper  Methods  that 
may  be  most  effectual  for  this  Purpose. 
I  am.  Sir, 
Your  most  obedient  humble  Servant 

HoLLES  Newcastle. 


GOVERNOR   WANTON   TO   GOVERNOR   BELCHER. 

Newport  12'^  November  1739 

This  waits  upon  You  by  Mess?  Goulding  and  Bren- 
ton  Two  of  our  Colony  Trustees  who  are  now  going 
to  Salem  Court  to  be  Evidences  against  the  Persons 
indicted  to  that  Court  for  Counterfeiting  the  Bills 
in  imitation  of  the  true  ^5  Bills  of  this  Colony,  and 
before  their  Return  design  likewise  for  Portsmouth 
in  New  Hampshire  upon  the  same  Account  if  not 
too  great  a  Distance  between  the  Two  Courts  And 
if  upon  any  future  Occasion  there  should  be  a  neces- 
sity of  one  or  more  of  the  signers  of  our  true  Bills 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       123 

to  attend  upon  a  Trial  We  shall  always  be  ready  to 
comply  therewith.  I  am  desired  by  our  General 
Assembly  to  acquaint  Your  Excels  That  a  Vote  is 
pass'd  ^  directing  our  Agent  in  Conjunction  with  the 
others  strenuously  to  oppose  at  the  next  Session  of 
Parliament  the  new  additional  Act  relating  to  the 
Sugar  Colonies  in  the  W.  Indies,  which  if  pass'd  will 
prove  extreamly  prejudicial  and  hurtful  to  the  Trade 
of  all  the  Northern  Colonies,  and  therefore  desire 
That  Your  ExceP.^  will  please  to  move  it  to  Your 
Gen!  Court  That  proper  Instructions  might  be  given 
for  that  purpose  Being  with  due  Respects 

Your  ExceP/^  most  assured  &c 

To  his  Excel'?'  Jon^  Belcher  Esq  &c 


GOVERNOR   WANTON    TO    RICHARD    PARTRmGE, 

Newport  12*?  9  Mo.  1739 

Respected  Friend  Rick^  Partridge 

Sometime  since  I  signed  a  Letter  with  others  as 
a  Committee,  with  a  Remittance  to  Thee  in  Gold 
and  Silver  to  the  Value  of  ^150  Str  for  the  taking 
out  the  King's  Commission  to  determine  our  Eastern 
Boundaries  by  Commissioners  here  and  I  do  now  also 
inform  thee  that  I  have  rec^  thy  several  Letters  and 
Packets  particularly  that  relating  to  the  Bill  prepared 
for  an  additional  Act  to  be  pass'd  relating  to  the 
Sugar  Colonies :  Which  is  conceived  will  be  very 
prejudicial   to  our  Trade  here  and  other  Northern 

1  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  IV.  562. 


124  Correspondence  of  the 

Colonies  and  therefore  a  Vote  was  passed  by  the 
General  Assembly  at  their  last  Sessions  desiring  me 
to  direct  Thee  strenuously  to  oppose  the  Same  and  to 
use  thy  utmost  Endeavours  to  prevent  it  being  passed 
into  a  Law/ 

I  received  lately  a  Packet  forwarded  by  thee  from 
the  Board  of  Trade,  wherein  was  inclosed  The  Votes 
of  the  House  of  Lords  and  House  of  Commons 
to  address  his  Majesty  relating  our  Paper  Currency, 
And  accordingly  received  in  the  Same  Packet  an 
order  from  the  Board  of  Trade  ^  to  remit  home  the 
State  of  our  several  Emissions  and  what  has  been 
called  in  and  sunk  thereof  and  likewise  the  Rate 
of  Gold  and  Silver  per  oz  at  several  Periods.  The 
General  Assembly  think  it  very  Strange  that  such 
Votes  should  be  pass'd  and  an  order  sent  which  so 
greatly  concerns  the  Colony  and  not  one  Word  from 
Thee  What  was  the  Occasion  of  or  what  induced 
Them  to  make  such  an  Enquiry  ^  I  am  &;c. 

To  Rich?  Partridge 


GOVERNOR   WANTON    TO   JOSEPH    TALCOTT.* 

Newport  12'!"  Novy  1739 

I  lately  rec^  a  Letter  from  our  Agent  wherein  he 
informs  me  that  He  had  received  the  Packet  We 
sent  him  with  the  Copy  of  the  Case  &c  relating  [to] 

1  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  IV.  562.  2  See  letters  on  pp.  iii,  112. 

3  See  I'artridge's  answer  of  11  mo.  (January)  2,  1739. 

*  Talcott  was  governor  of  Connecticut  from  1724  to  1741. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        125 

Masons  Affair.^  And  I  am  likewise  to  acquaint 
Your  Honour  That  I  am  desired  by  Our  General 
Assembly  to  let  you  know  That  at  their  last  Ses- 
sions They  pass'd  a  Vote  directing  our  Agent  (in 
Conjunction  with  others)  strenuously  to  oppose  at 
the  next  Sessions  of  Parliament  the  new  additional 
Act  relating  to  the  Sugar  Colonies  in  the  West 
Indies  which  if  pass'd  will  prove  extreamly  Preju- 
dicial and  Hurtfull  to  the  Trade  of  all  the  Northern 
Colonies,  And  therefore  desire  That  You  will  please 
to  move  it  to  Your  General  Assembly  that  proper 
Instructions  may  be  given  for  that  purpose.  I  have 
signified  the  Same  to  his  ExceP/  Governour  Belcher 
and  am  with  Respects  Hon^.'^  Sf  &c 

To  Joseph  Talcott  Esq  &c 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    GOVERNOR    WANTON. 

London  ii'.''  mo.  the  z'^  \^\l 
Gov''.  Wanton 

This  I  write  at  a  venture  to  the  Downs  to  meet 
a  Ship  there  for  Boston,  and  is  to  acknowledge  the 
receipt  of  thine  of  1 2^!^  9  mo.  last ;  ^  The  Colony  may 
be  assured  of  my  zeal  and  ffaithfulness  in  pursueing 
their  orders  w^""  respect  [of]  geting  out  the  Commis- 
sion for  determining  their  Eastern  Boundaries  with 

1  The  reference  is  probably  to  a  document  concerning  the  choice  of  a  Sachem  by  the 
Mohegan  Indians.  This  paper,  which  had  been  in  the  custody  of  one  Samuel  Mason, 
and  was  by  him  transferred  to  the  files  of  the  Court  of  Enquiry,  had  mysteriously  dis- 
appeared. 

^  See  p.  123. 


126  Correspondence  of  the 

all  the  Expedition  I  can,  and  advise  thee  the  needfull 
as  we  proceed.  As  to  the  Bill  prepard  last  Sessions 
of  V2,x\\2C[Vi\  for  further  enforcing  the  Sug^.Act  I  dont 
find  it  has  yet  been  touch'd  on  this  Sessions,  but 
if  it  sh"*  be  revivd  I  shall  use  my  endeavours  for  pre- 
venting its  being  passd.  whether  the  other  North- 
ern Colonys  will  joyn  with  me  in  the  oppisition  I 
know  not,  but  I  shall  try  to  bring  some  of  them  in 
to  bear  part  of  the  Charge. 

I  note  thou  hast  reed  from  the  Lords  of  Trade  the 
Votes  of  Parliament  relating  to  Paper  Currency  and 
also  an  ord'  from  the  Bo^  of  Trade  to  remit  to  them 
the  State  of  your  Several  Emissions  &c* 

And  if  thou  lookst  over  my  letter  of  the  lo.  6  mo.^ 
last  thou  willt  see  there  I  writ  the  foll^  Paragraff  (w'''' 
I  think  went  much  about  the  time  of  the  afores"^ 
letter  of  the  Bo^  of  Trade.) 

"  Thou  willt  see  by  the  Votes  herewith  sent  that 
"  the  Parliam*  are  for  having  an  ace*  of  the  State  of 
"  Bills  of  Cred*  in  the  Plantations  ready  to  be  laid 
"  before  them  next  Sessions,  which  its  probable  they 
"  call  for  in  order  to  do  something  by  way  of  Regu- 
"  lation  and  very  likely  thou  willt  receive  a  letter 
"  from  the  Lords  of  Trade  (among  others)  there- 
"  about. 

the  s^  Votes  were  passd  at  the  Tail  or  towards  the 
conclusion  of  the  last  Sessions  of  Parliam',  and  it 
was  not  very  long  after  that  I  advisd  thee  of  it  and 
sent  the  Votes.  We  can  give  no  reason  how  or  for 
what  reason  they  were  stirrd  up  to  do  it  unless  it 
proceeded  originaly  from  the  L"^.'  of  Trade  who  are 

1  See  letter  of  August  lo,  1739. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       127 

also  Members  of  Parliam^  the  Matter  was  general, 
and  their  orders  Issued  in  consequence  of  those 
Votes  doubtless  were  gen^  to  all  the  Plant^  Governm'^ 
where  there  are  Bills  of  Credit,  and  letters  writ  I 
beleive  accordingly  to  the  Gov!" ;  but  hitherto  I  don't 
observe  any  thing  has  been  done  in  it  this  Ses- 
sions of  Parliam'  If  they  sh^  take  it  in  hand  I  shall 
be  upon  the  Watch  and  take  Such  Measures  as  are 
Suitable  and  give  thee  due  notice  thereof 

I  am  with  due  regards       Thy  assured  Friend 

RichP  Partridge 

To  John  Wanton  Esq5 

Governor  of  the  Colony  of  Rhoad  Island  and 
Providence  Plantations 


THE    DUKE    OF    NEWCASTLE    TO    THE    GOVERNOR    AND 
COMPANY    OF    RHODE    ISLAND, 

Whitehall.  Janry  5*?  1 7l§. 
Gentlemen, 

His  Majesty  having  thought  fit  to  declare  War 
against  Spain,  and  being  determined,  by  all  possible 
Means,  to  distress  and  annoy  the  Spaniards,  in  the 
most  effectual  Manner,  and  particularly  by  making 
an  Attempt  upon  some  of  their  most  considerable 
Settlements  in  the  West  Indies,  The  King  has 
been  pleased  for  that  Purpose,  to  order  a  large  Body 
of  Troops,  under  the  Command  of  My  Lord  Cath- 
cart,^  a  Major  General  of  His  Majesty's  Forces,  to 
go  from  hence,  with  a  sufficient  Convoy  of  Men  of 

1  Lord  Cathcart  died  in  1740,  and  was  succeeded  by  Brigadier-General  Wentworth. 


128  Correspondence  of  the 

War,  to  a  proper  Place  in  the  West  Indies,  to  be 
appointed  for  that  Purpose,  there  to  be  joined  by  the 
Squadron  under  the  Command  of  Vice  Admiral 
Vernon,^  now  in  the  West  Indies ;  and  by  such  a 
Number  of  Troops,  as  may  be  raised  in  His  Majesty's 
Colonies,  and  Islands  in  America. 

As  It  has  been  represented  to  the  King,  That  a 
very  considerable  Number  of  Men  may  be  easily 
had,  upon  proper  Encouragement,  in  the  British 
Plantations,  and  particularly  in  His  Majesty's  Col- 
onies on  the  Continent  of  America,  to  serve  in  Con- 
junction with  the  regular  Troops  to  be  sent  from 
hence,  I  am  to  signify  to  You  His  Majesty's  Plea- 
sure, That  You  should  forthwith  make  the  proper 
Dispositions,  for  Raising  as  many  Men,  as  You  shall 
be  able  to  procure  within  your  Government :  And, 
as  the  King  intends.  That  the  Troops,  to  be  raised 
in  America,  should  be  commanded  by  Col?  Spots- 
wood  ;  The  w^iole  to  be  however,  after  They  shall 
have  joined  the  regular  Troops,  under  the  Command 
of  My  Lord  Cathcart,  General  and  Commander  in 
Chief  of  All  His  Majesty's  Troops,  sent  to,  or  raised 
in,  America,  (with  which  I  have,  by  this  Occasion, 
acquainted  Colonel  Spotswood)  It  is  His  Majesty's 
Pleasure,  That  You  should  confer,  or  correspond, 
with  Colonel  Spotswood,  if  You  have  an  Opportunity, 
upon  every  Thing,  that  may  relate  to  the  Perform- 
ance of  this  Service. 


1  Edward  Vernon,  promoted  vice-admiral,  July  9,  1730,  and  sent  to  capture  the 
Spanish  colonies  in  the  West  Indies.  The  expedition  resulted,  on  November  22,  1739, 
in  the  accomplishment,  verbatim,  of  Vernon's  boast,  that  he  could  capture  Pcto  Bello 
with  six  ships. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        129 

Colonel  Blakeney/  who  is  appointed  Adjutant 
General  in  this  Expedition,  will  set  out  from  hence, 
as  soon  as  possible,  with  His  Majesty's  Letters, 
and  Authorities  to  You,  and  the  other  Governors  of 
His  Majesty's  Colonies  on  the  Continent  of  America, 
for  making  the  said  Levies ;  and  with  the  King's 
more  particular  Instructions,  and  Directions,  relating 
to  this  Matter.  In  the  mean  Time,  The  King  has 
thought  proper.  That  I  should  give  You  this  previ- 
ous Notice,  that  You  may  be  making  the  necessary 
Dispositions,  in  order  to  facilitate,  as  soon  as  pos- 
sible, the  Raising  the  Troops.  Colonel  Blakeney 
will  carry  with  Him  a  considerable  Number  of  Arms, 
Some  Samples  of  Cloathing  for  the  Soldiers,  and 
what  Money,  or  Credit  shall  be  judged  requisite  for 
the  Performance  of  this  Service. 

It  is  His  Majesty's  Intention,  to  give  all  proper 
Encouragement  to  the  new  Levies,  by  Ordering  Them 
to  be  Supplyed  with  Arms,  and  a  proper  Cloathing, 
and  to  be  paid  by  His  Majesty ;  with  an  Assurance 
of  their  coming  in  for  their  Share  of  any  Booty,  that 
may  be  taken  from  the  Enemy,  and  of  their  being 
sent  back  to  their  respective  Habitations,  when  the 
Service  shall  be  over,  unless  any  of  Them  shall  de- 
sire to  settle  Themselves  elsewhere. 

His  Majesty  will  order,  to  be  sent  by  Colonel 
Blakeney,  a  Number  of  blank  Commissions  to  be 
given  by  the  Governors,  to  the  Officers,  that  are 
to  command  the  Troops  under  Colonel  Spotswood. 

1  William,  Lord  Blakeney,  made  colonel  in  1737,  and  sent  to  Cartagena,  with  rank 
of  brigadier-general,  in  1741.  He  was  lieutenant-governor  of  Minorca  in  1756  at  the 
time  when,  after  an  heroic  and  hopeless  defence  of  seventy  days,  that  island  was  taken 
by  the  French. 


130  Correspondence  of  the 

The  King  has  not  thought  proper  to  confine  You  to 
any  particular  Number  of  Men  to  be  raised  within 
your  Government,  His  Majesty  depending  upon  your 
Care  and  Zeal  for  His  Service,  That  You  will  pro- 
cure as  many,  as  You  possibly  can. 

You  will  consider,  how  much  the  Time  presses, 
and  will  therefore  use  the  utmost  Expedition  in  mak- 
ing your  Preparations.  It  is  hoped,  That  My  Lord 
Cathcart  may  be  able  to  sail  from  hence,  in  April, 
or  May  next ;  And  consequently  You  will  take  care, 
That  the  Troops,  to  be  raised  within  your  Govern- 
ment, may  be  ready  to  be  transported,  in  Time,  to 
the  Place,  that  shall  be  appointed  for  the  general 
Rendez-vous ;  with  which  Col"  Blakeney  will  acquaint 
You,  as  well  as  with  every  Thing  else,  that  may  be  ne- 
cessary for  your  further  Information  and  Instruction. 

You  will  be  considering,  in  what  manner  to  pro- 
vide Transports,  and  Provisions;  And  even,  if  it  be 
necessary.  You  will  secure  Them  out  of  hand,  for  such 
a  Number  of  Men,  as.  You  shall  judge.  You  may  be 
able  to  get  within  your  Government ;  Or ;  You  will 
correspond  with  any  of  the  Governors  of  the  neigh- 
bouring Colonies,  relating  to  this  Matter,  in  such 
Manner,  as  You  shall  think  proper. 

I  am  persuaded,  I  need  not  say  any  Thing  to  in- 
duce You  to  use  your  utmost  Care  and  Diligence  in 
an  Affair  of  this  Importance ;  And  for  the  Promot- 
ing the  Success  of  a  Service,  in  which  the  Honor  of 
His  Majesty's  Crown,  and  the  Interest  of  His  Sub- 
jects (especially  Those  residing  in  America)  are  so 
essentially  concerned.  The  many  Injuries,  and  Cruel- 
ties, which  the  Inhabitants  of  the  British  Plantations 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         131 

have  suffered  from  the  Violence,  and  Depredations 
of  the  Spaniards,  will,  I  doubt  not,  be  an  additional 
Motive  to  engage  all  His  Majesty's  faithfull  Subjects 
there,  to  exert  Themselves  with  an  uncommon  Zeal, 
on  this  Occasion. 

I  am,  Gentlemen 

Your  most  obedient  humble  Servant 

HoLLES  Newcastle 
P.  S.  Tho'  Colonel  Blakeney  will  be  dispatched, 
as  soon  as  possible,  with  His  Majesty's  more  particu- 
lar Instructions,  and  Directions  to  You,  Yet,  That  no 
Time  may  be  lost.  It  is  His  Majesty's  Pleasure,  That 
immediately  upon  the  Receipt  of  this  Letter,  You 
should  Issue  a  Proclamation,  in  the  proper  form, 
Inviting  His  Majesty's  Subjects,  within  your  Govern- 
ment, chearfully  to  inlist  in  this  Service,  and  assuring 
Them  of  a  proper  Encouragement  for  that  Purpose. 

HoLLES  Newcastle 

Governor,  and  Company  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode 
Island. 


THE    GOVERNOR    AND    COMPANY     OF     RHODE    ISLAND    TO    THE 
LORDS    COMMITTEE    OF    THE    PRIVY    COUNCIL.^ 

To  the  R.  Hon^^f  the  Lords  of  the  Com'^f  of  His  Ma- 
jesty s  most  Hon^^f  Privy  Councill.  For  Plantation 
Affairs. 

The  humble  Petition  of  the  Governor  and  Com- 
pany of  His  Majesty's  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and 
Providence  Plantations. 

1  See  letter  of  Partridge's,  dated  ist  mo.  (March)  20,  1739.  This  document  is  not 
dated,  but  from  an  allusion  in  a  letter  of  Partridge,  written  12  mo.  (February)  6,  1745, 
it  is  thought  that  January  19,  1740,  may  be  the  date  at  which  it  was  written. 


132  Correspondence  of  the 

Sheweth  That  a  former  humble  Petition  was  pre- 
sented by  your  Peti?  to  His  Majesty  in  Councill 
in  the  Year  1734  praying  a  Settlem'  of  a  very  old 
Controversy,  about  the  Eastern  Bounds  of  the  Said 
Colony,  towards  his  Majestys  Province  of  the  Mas- 
sachusets  Bay,  which  Said  Petition  is  by  his  Maj'^'^ 
most  Gracious  Referrence  now  depending  before 
Your  Lordships. 

That  His  Majesty  has  been  pleased,  by  your  Lord- 
ships advice,  to  make  Several  Royal  Orders  in  Coun- 
cill, during  the  Course  of  this  Affair,  particularly, 
One  of  the  30'!"  of  Nov^  last,  whereby  His  Majesty 
ordered,  that  Commissi  Should  be  chosen,  out  of  the 
Neighbouring  Provinces  for  that  Service,  and  that 
the  Inhabitants  of  the  Said  Province  and  Colony 
Should  in  the  mean  time.  Continue  in  the  Peaceable 
Possession  of  their  Property,  without  Molestation  on 
Either  Side,  And  another  Order  in  Co"  of  the  ly^'' 
Janry  last,  whereby  his  Majesty  has  been  pleased  to 
approve  and  order  that  15  Gentlemen,  therein  named, 
Shall  be  the  Commiss?  for  marking  out  and  Settling 
the  Boundarys,  Between  the  Said  Province  of  the 
Massachusets  Bay  and  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island 
Eastward, 

But  no  Comm"  hath  Yet  Issued  under  the  Great 
Seal  for  authorising  Such  Comiss"".^  to  mark  out  and 
Settle  the  Said  Boundarys,  nor  hath  the  particular 
Clauses  to  be  Conteined  in  Such  Comm?  been  hith- 
erto Settled. 

Wherefore,  Your  Petitioners  (with  the  most  humble 
duty  and  deferrence  have  hereunto  Annexed  a  Pro- 
posal of  the  Several  Clauses  Similar  (So  far  as  re- 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       133 

late  to  the  Present  Case)  to  those  which  were  con- 
teined  in  the  last  Comm"  issued  in  a  like  Instance, 
which  are  most  humbly  Submitted  to  your  Lordships 
Consideration 

And  most  humbly  pray  your  Lordships  That  the 
Agent  for  the  Mass^  Bay  may  be  required  to  attend 
Your  Lordships  at  Some  Short  day  to  declare  his 
Objections  (if  any  he  hath)  to  all  or  any  the  Clauses 
to  be  Conteined  in  Such  Comm"  And  that  the  whole 
Charge  of  the  Comm"  and  the  Execution  of  it  and 
of  the  Comm?  and  of  their  Clarks  and  Officers,  may 
be  ordered  to  be  borne  in  Equal  Moietys  between 
the  Said  Colony  and  Province,  Or  to  afford  Your 
Petitioners  Such  other  Relief,  and  in  Such  other 
manner,  as  to  Your  Lordships  great  Wisdom  Shall 
Seem  meet 

And  Your  Petitioners  Shall  ever  pray  &c 

I.  Whereas  a  dispute  hath  been  long  Subsisting 
between  his  Majestys  Province  of  the  Mass*  Bay  and 
his  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  in  America,  relating  to 
the  Eastern  Boundarys  of  the  Said  Colony  towards 
the  Said  Province. 

2  His  Majesty  therefore  doth  nominate  author- 
ise and  appoint  Cadwallader  Colden,  Abr^.  Vanhorn, 
Philip  Livingston,  Archbald  Kennedy,  and  James 
de  Lancey  Esq'■.^  of  the  Province  of  New  York,  John 
Hamilton,  John  Wells,  John  Reading,  Cornelius 
Vanhorn,  and  W"?  Provost  Esq'■.^  of  the  Province  of 
New  Jersey,  and  W""  Skene,  W?  Shirreff,  Henry 
Cope,  Erasmus  James  Philips  and  Otho  Hamilton 
Esq'.'  of  the  Province  of  Nova  Scotia,  Or  any  five  or 
more  of  them,  to  be  his  Majestys  Commissi  for  Set- 


134  Correspondence  of  the 

tling  adjusting  and  determining  the   Boundarys  of 
the  Said  Colony,  Eastwards  in  dispute  as  aforesaid. 

3  His  Majestys  Will  and  Pleasure  therefore  is 
that  the  Said  Comm?  do  repair  by  the  first  Con- 
venient Opportunity,  to  the  Town  of  Providence 
within  the  Said  Colony,  being  most  Conveniently 
Scituated  for  that  Purpose  and  there  hold  their  first 
Meeting  on  the  2o'^  day  of  Septemf  which  Shall  be 
in  the  Year  of  Our  Lord  1739  From  which  day  and 
any  future  days  of  Adjournment,  they  may  adjourn 
to  Such  Time  and  times  as  may  be  most  Convenient 
for  them. 

4  That  in  Case  5  of  the  Comm?  Shall  not  be  pre- 
sent on  the  Said  20*^  day  of  Septem""  or  on  any  other 
day  of  Adjournment,  Then  Such,  or  a  Majority  of 
Such  of  them  as  Shall  be  present.  Shall  and  may 
adjourn  the  further  Execution  of  this  Commission  in 
manner  aforesaid. 

5  That  at  their  first  meeting  they  do  make  Choice 
of  One  or  more  Clark  or  Clarks  to  enter  their  min- 
utes and  proceedings,  as  also  of  One  or  more  Skilful 
persons  to  prepare  dr\'  or  Plans  of  the  Country  or 
Boundarys,  as  there  Shall  be  from  time  to  time 
Occasion 

6  That  they  do  administer  to  Such  Clarks,  or 
other  persons  as  they  Shall  employ  on  Oath  (Or  if 
they  shall  be  of  the  People  Called  Quakers  an  Af- 
firm?) for  the  due  and  faithful  Execution  of  their 
Trusts. 

7  That  of  the  Comm"  present  at  any  Meeting,  he 
who  is  first  named  in  the  List  of  Comm?  Shall  preside 
at  Such  Meeting,  and  Shall  issue  out  the  necessary 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        135 

Sumons,  for  Such  Witnesses  as  Either  Party  Shall 
require. 

8  That  the  Said  Comm''.*  do  use  all  Convenient 
dispatch  in  this  Affair 

9  That  all  determinations  be  made  by  a  Majority 
of  the  Comm"  who  Shall  be  present  at  the  respective 
Meetings,  provided  there  Shall  be  then  present  5  or 
more  of  the  Said  Commiss? 

10  That  in  Case  either  the  Said  Province  of  the 
Mass^  Bay,  or  the  Said  Colony  of  Rhode  Island, 
Shall  neglect  to  send  to  the  Comm"  at  the  first  day 
of  Meeting  of  the  Comm",  the  Names  and  Places  of 
abode  of  Two  of  their  Publick  Officers  residing  in 
the  respective  Province  and  Colony,  On  Either  of 
whom  or  at  whose  Place  of  Abode,  any  Notices 
Sumons  or  Final  Judgem!  of  the  Said  Comm?  may 
be  Served  or  left,  And  in  Case  Either  the  Said 
Province,  or  the  Said  Colony,  Shall  neglect  to  send 
to  the  Said  Comm"  at  the  first  day  of  meeting  of 
the  Comm"  a  plain  and  full  State  in  Writing  of  the 
demands  or  Pretensions  of  the  Said  Province  and 
Colony,  respectively,  whene  and  in  what  Places  the 
Boundarys  of  the  Said  Colony,  Eastwards  ought  to 
begin,  and  what  Courses,  and  with  what  Variation, 
and  in  what  manner,  and  how  farr  the  Same  ought 
to  Run  (to  the  End  that  Copys  thereof  may  be  mutu- 
ally Exchanged  in  order  to  prevent  any  unnecessary 
delay,  and  that  Each  party  may  Come  fully  prepared). 
Then  in  Either  of  those  Cases  the  Said  Comm"  or 
any  5  or  more  of  them,  do  proceed  Exparte. 

1 1  That  no  Witness  or  Witnesses  be  allow'd  of 
by  the  Comm?  to  give  Evidence,  but  Such  as  Shall 


136  Correspondence  of  the 

be  Sworn  (or  being  of  the  People  Called  Quakers, 
Shall  take  a  Solemn  Affirm^)  before  the  Comm?  in 
open  Court,  w''.*'  Oath  or  Affirm^  the  Comm?  or  any 
5  or  more  of  them  are  hereby  impowered  to  Admin- 
ister. 

12  That  all  Interrogatorys  and  Questions  which 
Shall  be  put  to  Such  Witnesses  before  the  Comm? 
Shall  be  Sett  down  in  Writing  and  that  the  whole 
of  what  Such  Witnesses  Shall  offer  to  the  Comm" 
Shall  also  be  Sett  down  in  Writing  by  the  Said 
Clark  or  Clarks,  in  the  presence  of  the  Comm"  and 
of  the  Respective  Witnesses,  and  that  the  Same  be 
read  over  to  and  Signed  by  the  Respective  Wit- 
nesses. 

13  That  either  party  may  cross  Examine  any  of 
the  other  partys  Witnesses  And  that  all  Such  Ex- 
aminations and  cross  Examinations  be  taken  pri- 
vately before  the  Comm"  and  their  Clarks,  but  that 
neither  of  the  partys  or  any  of  their  Agents,  Shall  be 
present  at  the  Same. 

14  That  the  Comm"  Shall  appoint  Such  time 
as  they  Shall  find  reasonable  within  which  all  the 
Witnesses  on  Each  Side,  Shall  be  produced  to  be 
Examined  and  that  when  the  Witnesses  Shall  be 
examined,  the  Comm"  Shall  direct  Public?  of  the 
Examinations,  and  Either  party  Shall  be  at  Liberty 
to  take  out  Copys  of  the  whole  Examinations  and 
Cross  Examinations  on  both  Sides. 

15  That  after  the  Copys  of  Such  Examinations 
and  Cross  Examinations  Shall  be  ready  for  Each 
party  the  Comm?  Shall  then  appoint  a  day  for  giv- 
ing Judgment  which  day  Shall  not  be  less  then  10 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        137 

days,  nor  more  then  30  days  after  the  time  that  Each 
party  may  have  out  the  Copys  of  the  depositions 
unless  the  partys  Shall  jointly  agree  on  any  further 
or  other  time,  as  more  Convenient  for  the  Comm? 
and  Themselves 

16  That  after  Public^  no  new  or  further  Evidence 
Shall  be  Received  from  Either  Side. 

17  That  Entrys  be  made  of  all  Charters,  Grants, 
deeds,  Evidences,  Proofs,  and  Plans  Received  by  the 
Comm'.^  in  this  affaire  and  also  of  all  the  Comm""?  pro- 
ceedings and  Resolutions  throughout  the  Same,  and 
that  Such  Plans  Maps  or  dr*.^  of  the  Boundary  lines 
as  Shall  be  agreed  upon  by  the  Comm?  be  annexed 
to  and  made  part  of  the  Comm'.'  determination 

18  77^<3:/ when  the  Comm'.'  Shall  have  made  their' 
final  determina*  and  Signed  the  Same,  A  Copy 
thereof  Shall  be  forthwith  Sent  to  Such  publick  Offi- 
cer or  Officers  in  the  said  Province  and  Colony 
respectively  together  with  Notice  of  another  Meet- 
ing, to  be  held  by  the  Comm'.'  att  the  distance  of 
Six  Weeks  or  at  Such  fup;ther  reasonable  time,  not 
Exceeding  3  Calendar  Months,  as  the  Comm?  Shall 
appoint. 

19  That  at  Such  future  Meeting,  the  Said  Pro- 
vince and  the  Said  Colony  respectively  or  Either 
of  them,  who  Shall  find  themselves  aggrieved,  may 
Enter  their  Appeal  to  his  Majesty  in  his  Privy  Coun- 
cill  with  a  declaration  what  Part  of  the  determin^  of 
the  Comm?  they  respectively  abide  by  or  appeal  from. 

20  That  if  the  Said  Province,  or  the  Said  Colony, 
Shall  not  Enter  their  respective  Appeal  or  Excep- 
tion against  Such  determine  at  Such  last  meeting 


138  Correspondence  of  the 

Then  no  Appeal  or  Exception  Shall  be  afterwards 
Received  or  admitted  from  Such  of  the  partys 
who  Shall  omit  to  Enter  their  respective  Appeals  or 
Exceptions  at  Such  last  meeting  of  the  Comm?; 
And  in  Case  neither  the  Said  Province  nor  the  Said 
Colony  Shall  then  Enter  any  Appeal  or  Exceptions, 
the  determin*  of  the  Comm?  (Being  Confirmed  by 
his  Majesty  in  Councill)  Shall  be  final  and  Conclu- 
sive to  both  the  Said  Province  and  Colony. 

2 1  That  the  Said  Province  and  the  Said  Colony 
be  permitted  to  take  out  at  their  own  respective 
Expence  Copys  of  the  whole  proceedings,  Proofs, 
Exhibits,  Plans,  and  all  other  Papers  and  Writings 
in  this  Affair,  to  be  attested  by  3  or  more  of  the 
Comm? 

22  That  the  Comm?  do  Return  a  fair  Copy  of  the 
whole  Record,  attested  by  3  or  more  of  them  to  His 
Majesty  in  Councill 

23  That  the  Charge  of  the  Commission  and  of  the 
Carrying  it  into  Execution  and  of  the  Comm?  their 
Clarks  Surveyors  and  Officers  be  borne  and  paid  in 
Equal  Moietys  by  the  Said  Province  and  the  Said 
Colony 

[January  19,  17H?] 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

I'.*  mo.  20"".   I7j9 

Gov^  Wanton 

I  have  already  writ  thee  and  others  per  this  Ship 
a  duplicate  of  mine  of  the  i8.  xber  last  since  which 
I   have   often  pressd  our  Solicitor  for  getting  out 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        1 39 

the  Commission  Pursuant  to  my  Petition  lodged 
pretty  early  for  that  purpose  at  the  Council  Office  as 
I  have  heretofore  advised  thee,  but  have  not  yett  been 
able  to  obtain  it,  the  Lord  President  of  the  Council 
being  intent  of  late  (as  I  am  told)  in  other  Affairs,  Par- 
ticular[l]y  the  Matter  of  the  Boundary  between 
the  Massachusetts  and  New  Hampshire,^  that  there 
was  no  getting  ours  relating  to  the  Colony  of  Rhoad 
Island  forward,  but  now  I  hope  we  shall  soon,  as  the 
other  is  adjusted  which  went  altogether  in  favour  of 
New  Hampshire. 

Nothing  done  in  Parliment  yet  relating  to  fur- 
ther inforceing  the  Sugar  Act  or  Iron,  or  the  Paper 
Currency  in  the  Plantations,  and  which  I  believe 
they  hardly  will  now  as  the  Sessions  is  so  farr  ad- 
vanced, tho'  they  say  the  Lords  of  Trade  will  lay 
before  them  a  Representation :  if  they  shoud  I  intend 
to  send  thee  a  Copy  of  it. 

As  to  Publick  News,  France  Stands  Neuter  still 
and  does  not  publickly  take  part  in  the  part  between 
the  Spaniards  and  us  but  as  the  Spaniards  are  greatly 
distress'd  (not  with  standing  what  they  may  pretend 
otherwise)  its  not  very  unlikely  that  France  will  Suc- 
cour them  if  they  can.  for  the  rest  I  refer  to  the  Prints 
herewith  sent  and  remain 

Thy  &c 

Rich?  Partridge 

To  Governor  Wanton. 

1  See  note  on  p.  8i. 


140  Correspondence  of  the 

ALEXANDER   SPOTSWOOD ^  TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

Gemanna  in  Virginia  Aprils?  i74o- 
Sir 

The  Paquet,  which  I  now  transmit  to  you  from 
the  Duke  of  Newcastle  His  Majesty's  Principal  Sec- 
retary of  State,  came  to  my  hand  Yesterday;  the 
Colchester  Man  of  War  being  sent  Express  to  bring 
the  same  to  me  :  And  as  His  Majesty  has  Honour'd 
me  with  the  Charge  of  Concerting  Measures  with 
all  his  Governors  here  on  the  Continent  of  America, 
for  the  Assistance  which  their  respective  Provinces 
may  Afford  towards  an  important  Expedition  now 
on  foot,  against  the  Spanish  Settlement'  in  the  West 
Indies,  I  purpose  for  that  end,  very  soon  personally 
to  Kiss  yoy  hands. 

In  the  meantime  His  Grace's  Letter  will,  I  doubt 
not,  induce  you  zealously  to  set  about  the  encourag- 
ing the  people  Under  your  Government,  to  engage 
in  so  Glorious  an  undertaking;  which  they  may 
certainly  look  upon  as  a  Golden  Adventure :  Espe- 
cially when  they  learn  that  Vice-Admiral  Vernon  has 
already  Oblig'd  the  Inhabitants  of  Porto-Bello,  to 
redeem  their  Town  from  being  burnt,  by  the  pay- 
ment of  Three  Millions  of  Pieces  of  Eight;  besides 
his  taking  three  2  or  3  Spanish  Men  of  War,  and  15 
or  16  Merchant  Men.  Now  if  the  Admiral  could 
atchieve  this  with  the  Squadron  at  present  under  his 
Command;  what  place,  on  the  Coasts  of  the  Spanish 

1  Spotswood  was  governor  of  Virginia  from  1710  to  1722,  and  always  a  prominent 
figure  in  the  colony.  In  1730  he  was  appointed  deputy-postmaster  for  the  colonics, 
and  was  commissioned  major-general  in  1740.  He  died  in  June  while  superintending 
the  embarking  of  troops  at  Annapolis. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        141 

West  Indies,  can  withstand  our  Attempts,  when  rein- 
forced with  another  Squadron  of  Men  of  War,  and 
Eight  or  Ten  Thousand  Land  Forces  from  Europe, 
together  with  five  or  Six  Thousand  Volunteers,  in- 
ured to  the  Climate  of  America,  which  we  may 
Probably  raise  upon  this  Continent,  and  in  our 
Islands  in  the  West  Indies  ? 

As  an  inducement  to  your  people,  to  engage  in  the 
intended  Expedition,  it  may  not  be  amiss  to  remark 
to  them  the  very  prudent  care  which  His  Majesty 
has  taken  of  their  Interests;  by  appointing  an  Old 
Experienc'd  Officer  (who  has  resided  among  them 
25  years,  and  has  his  Estate  fixt  in  this  part  of  the 
world)  to  have  the  particular  Command  of  the  North 
American  Forces :  whereby  they  may  assuredly  ex- 
pect, that  He  will  be  a  Strenuous  Stickler  in  their 
behalf  to  have  Justice  done  them,  in  their  due  share 
of  the  Booty. 

Your  honouring  me  with  your  frequent  Corre- 
spondence, at  this  juncture,  and  informing  me  of  the 
Progress  you  make  in  the  intended  Levies ;  or  of 
what  Success  you  expect  therein,  may  very  much 
conduce  to  the  orderly  carrying  on  the  present  Ser- 
vice ;  And  whatever  Government  I  may  be  in,  my 
Deputy  Post-Masters  will  safely  convey  your  Letters 
to  S^ 

Your  Most  Obedient  Humble  Servant 

A  Spots  WOOD 


142  Correspondence  of  the 

RICHARD   PARTRIDGE   TO   GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

London  2?  mo  :  the  4 . 1 740 
Gov''.  Wanton 

The  foregoing  is  duplicate  of  my  last  to  thee  per 
Cap*  Remick.  Since  which  the  Lords  of  Trade  have 
laid  before  the  Parliam*  on  the  28  ult.  Copys  of  the 
Several  acco!'  of  Paper  Currency  in  the  Plantations 
w'^'*  they  reed  from  the  respective  Governm!^  just 
as  they  came  over  without  makeing  any  remarks 
thereon,  as  thou  willt  see  by  the  inclosed  Paper  here- 
with sent  thee.^  the  Board  had  indeed  prepared  a 
pretty  long  Representation  on  the  Subject,  but  when 
they  had  done  it,  did  not  send  it  to  either  the  Lords 
or  Commons  for  Certain  Reasons  they  had  with 
themSelves ;  perhaps  they  might  apprehend  Part  of 
it  might  give  occasion  of  disgust  to  some  Persons ; 
however  it  lyes  by  them  and  whether  they  will  make 
any  use  of  it  hereafter  I  know  not,  however  as  I  have 
had  a  Sight  of  it  I  procurd  a  Copy  and  shall  send  it 
thee  in  my  next ;  those  Papers  w*'''  the  Board  of 
Trade  have  laid  before  both  Houses  lye  on  their 
Table  to  be  perusd  by  the  Members  after  they  were 
read  and  nothing  at  all  yet  further  done  therein ;  I 
shall  still  be  on  the  Watch  to  observe  what  proceed- 
ings have  been  made  thereabout  and  act  as  shall  be 
judgd  necessary  and  advise  thee  accordingly,  which 
is  the  present  needfull  from 

Thy  assured  Friend 

RiCH^  Partridge 

along  with  the  Lond?  Magazine  w'^''  goes  by  this  Ship 

.    1  Not  in  the  archives. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        143 

for  Sec"^  Martin  I  sent  thee  a  Plan  of  Puerto  Bello 
harbour  and  also  an  other  Plan  of  w*"^  I  desire  thy 
acceptance 

To  Governor  Wanton. 


THE  DUKE  OF  NEWCASTLE  TO  THE  GOVERNOR  AND 
COMPANY  OF  RHODE  ISLAND. 

Whitehall  April  5*.''  1 740. 
Gentlemen, 

I  acquainted  you  by  my  Letter  of  January  the  5'.** 
with  His  Majesty's  Intentions  to  send  from  hence  a 
large  Body  of  Forces  under  the  Command  of  My 
Lord  Cathcart/  in  order  to  make  an  attempt  upon 
some  of  the  most  considerable  of  the  Spanish  Settle- 
ments in  the  West  Indies ;  which  are  to  be  joined 
by  such  a  Number  of  Troops,  as  may  be  raised  in 
His  Majesty's  Colonys  and  Islands  in  America ;  And 
at  the  same  Time  I  sent  you  His  Majesty's  Direc- 
tions to  be  making  the  necessary  Dispositions,  in 
order  to  facilitate,  as  soon  as  possible,  the  raising  the 
Troops  within  your  Government ;  And  I  informed 
you,  that  Col"  Blakeney,^  who  is  appointed  Adjutant 
General  in  this  Expedition,  would  set  out  from  hence, 
as  soon  as  possible,  with  the  King's  more  particular 
Instructions  and  Directions  to  you  and  the  other 
Governors  in  America,  relating  to  this  Matter:  And 
His  Majesty  doubts  not,  but  that,  in  consequence 
of  these  Orders,  you  will  have  taken  the  necessary 

1  See  p.  140.  2  See  p.  144. 


144  Correspondence  of  the 

Steps  to  get  the  Levys  in  as  much  Forwardness  as 
possible. 

I  now  send  you  inclosed  His  Majesty's  Instruc- 
tions/ under  His  Royal  Sign  Manual,  containing 
particular  Directions  for  your  Conduct  in  every 
Thing,  relating  to  the  Performance  of  this  Service, 
which  are  so  full,  that  they  leave  me  nothing  to  add, 
but  to  recommend  to  you  the  utmost  Care  and  Dili- 
gence in  the  Execution  of  His  Majesty's  Orders, 
and  particularly  in  procuring  as  great  a  Number  of 
Men,  as  you  possibly  can,  to  inlist,  which  by  the  great 
Encouragement,  which  (you  will  see  by  your  Instruc- 
tions) His  Majesty  has  thought  fit  to  give  to  such 
Persons,  as  shall  enter  into  His  Service  on  this  Oc- 
casion, It  is  hoped,  may  be  easily  done.  You  will 
see,  that  Col°  Blakeney  carries  with  him  from  hence 
only  3000  Arms;  You  will  not  however  limit  the 
Number  of  Men  to  be  raised  within  your  Govern- 
ment, in  proportion  to  that  Number  of  Arms ;  since 
My  Lord  Cathcart  will  carry  with  him  a  Quantity 
of  Spare  Arms  and  Cloathing,  in  case  it  should  be 
practicable  to  raise  a  greater  Number,  than  the  Three 
Thousand,  for  which  Col°  Blakeney  carries  with  him 
Arms,  and  Money  for  their  Subsistence. 

As  you  cannot  but  be  sensible  of  the  great  Im- 
portance of  this  Service,  and  how  much  the  Honour 
of  His  Majesty's  Crown,  and  the  Interest  of  His 
Subjects  (especially  Those  in  America)  are  concerned 
in  the  Success  of  this  Expedition,  I  am  persuaded 
you  will  omit  nothing  on  your  part,  that  may  con- 
tribute thereto,  by  doing  all  that  lies  in  your  Power, 

1  See  the  following  document. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        145 

to  promote  the  Levys,  as  soon,  and  as  effectually,  as 
may  be,  in  which  you  will  judge  from  the  advanced 
Season,  there  is  no  Time  to  be  lost ;  and  you  may 
be  assured,  that  your  Zeal  in  the  Execution  of  the 
King's  Orders  on  this  Occasion,  will  be  very  gra- 
ciously accepted  by  His  Majesty. 

Major  General  Spotswood,^  whom  His  Maj'?'  has 
been  pleased  to  appoint  Quarter  Master  General  in 
this  Expedition,  and  Colonel  of  the  Troops  to  be 
raised  in  America,  will  receive  His  Majesty's  Direc- 
tions to  sail  with  such  a  Number  of  the  said  Troops, 
as  He  can  get  together,  so  as  to  be  at  the  Place 
appointed  for  the  General  Rendezvous  by  the  latter 
End  of  August,  or  the  Beginning  of  September  next ; 
And  He  will  leave  Directions  with  proper  Persons  to 
follow  him  with  the  rest  of  the  Troops,  as  they  shall 
be  raised. 

And  if  you  should  find  Difficulty  in  raising  the 
Men  within  your  Government  by  the  Methods  that 
may  occur  to  you  for  that  purpose.  It  is  His  Ma- 
jesty's Pleasure,  that  you  should,  in  that  Case,  per- 
mit Major  General  Spotswood,  Col°  Blakeney,  or  any 
Persons  appointed  by  them,  to  beat  up  for  Volun- 
teers, and  that  you  should,  to  the  utmost  of  your 
Power,  assist  them  in  it. 

I  heartily  wish  you  Success  in  the  Execution  of 
His  Majesty's  Orders,  and  am,  Gentlemen, 
Your  most  humble  Servant. 

HoLLES  Newcastle 

Gov'  and  Company  of  Rhode  Island. 

1  See  p.  140. 


146  Corresponde7ice  of  the 


GEORGE  II.  TO  THE  GOVERNOR  AND  COMPANY  OF  RHODE 

ISLAND.^ 

George  R. 
Secret  Instruction  for  Our  Trusty  and  Welbeloved  the  Governor 
and  Company  of  Our  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence 
Plantation  in  America,  or  the  Governor  and  Company  of  Our 
said  Colojiy  for  the  time  being.  Given  at  Our  Court  at  St 
James's  the  Second  Day  of  April  1740,  in  the  Thirteenth 
Year  of  Our  Reign. 

WkereasW^  have  been  graciously  pleased  to  charge 
Ourselves  with  the  Cloathing,  Arming  and  Pay  of 
the  Troops  to  be  raised  in  Our  Colony  of  Rhode 
Island  and  Providence  Plantation  under  your  Gov- 
ernment, and  have  likewise  given  them  many  other 
great  Encouragements  to  enter  into  Our  Service,  as, 
by  your  Instructions  upon  that  Subject,  will  appear, 
and  therefore  have  Reason  to  hope,  that  the  As- 
sembly of  Our  said  Colony  will  make  no  Difficulty 
of  complying  with  Our  Eighth  Instruction  to  you, 
whereby  you  are  ordered  to  recommend  to  them  to 
provide  Victuals,  Transports  and  all  other  Neces- 
saries for  the  Troops  to  be  raised  by  them,  except 
their  Cloaths.  Tents,  Arms,  Ammunition  and  Pay, 
till  their  Arrival  at  the  General  Rendezvous  in  the 
West  Indies.  However,  that  this  Expedition  may 
not  be  defeated  for  want  of  an  early  and  sufficient 
Supply  of  Transports  and  Provisions,  in  case  Our 
said  Colony  shall  heartily  exert  themselves  in  the 
Execution  of  the  rest  of  Our  Orders,  and  shall, 
within  a  reasonable  Time,  raise  a  large  Body  of  Men 

1  Enclosed  in  the  Duke  of  Newcastle's  letter  of  April  3,  1740. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        147 

for  Our  Service,  if  they  cannot  be  induced  forthwith 
to  comply  with  Our  Orders  herein,  You  are  hereby 
empowered  to  engage  Transports  and  secure  Provi- 
sions, for  the  purpose  aforesaid,  upon  the  best  Terms 
you  are  able,  and  to  draw  upon  the  Commissioners 
of  Our  Navy  for  the  payment  thereof. 

GR. 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    GOVERNOR    WANTON. 

London  2?  mo.  the  12'."  1740 
Governour  Wanton 

My  last  to  thee  was  per  Cap!  Fones  of  the  3?  Inst, 
to  which  I  refer,  wherein  I  intimated  that  the  Lords 
of  Trade  had  lately  laid  before  the  Parliament  the 
sevl  accounts  they  reed  from  the  Governors  of  the 
Plantations  relating  to  the  State  of  Paper  Currency 
&c.  just  as  they  came  over  without  making  any  Re- 
marks thereon,  this  now  brings  thee  a  Copy  of  that 
Boards  Representation  which  they  had  prepar'd  to 
lay  before  both  Houses  of  Parliam*,  but  afterwards 
on  some  considerations  declind  it  and  which  still 
lyes  in  their  Office,  whether  any  or  what  use  of  it 
may  be  made  hereafter  we  know  not,  as  for  my  part 
I  have  never  given  them  any  aco*  relating  to  the 
Paper  Currency  of  RW  Island,  neither  indeed  could 
I  with  any  certainty ;  but  here  is  Ch  :  Kilby  ^  one  of 
the  Massachusl^  Assembly  come  over  to  Solicit  some- 
thing relating  to  the  extention  of  the  Gov.""^  Instruc- 
tions for  issuing  Bills  of  Credit,  who  has  been  before 
that  Board,  and  I  am  apt  to  think  was  examind  on 

1  Provincial  agent  for  Massachusetts  at  London. 


148  Correspondence  of  the 

that  head  in  general!,  but  beleive  he  will  scarce  in 
any  wise  accomplish  the  end  he  was  sent  over  for,  — 
The  House  of  Commons  have  appointed  the  16'^ 
Inst  for  taking  into  consideration  the  afores"!  several 
acco'.'  presented  them  by  the  Lords  of  Trade. 

16.  ditto 

Since  writing  the  foregoing  I  attended  at  the 
House  of  Commons  and  saw  that  when  the  affair 
of  the  Paper  Currency  was  to  have  come  on  they 
put  off  the  consideration  of  it  to  the  23^  Instant  at 
w"^^  time  I  intend  to  be  there  again  but  am  apt  to 
think  they  will  Scarce  do  much  in  it  this  Sessions 
the  time  being  so  far  Spent  I  am  with  due  regards 
Thy  Assured  Friend 

RiCH°  Partridge 

To  Governour  Wanton. 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    GOVERNOR    WANTON. 

LoND?  2*  mo.  the  1 7.  1 740 

Governor  Wanton 

I  have  already  writ  thee  per  this  Conveyance  of 
the  12'.''  Inst  to  which  I  refer,  but  since  then  I  have 
learnd  how  far  the  Parliam*  are  like  to  proceed  this 
Sessions  touching  the  Paper  Currency  Affair  and 
w'^''  I  find  is  agreed  on  beforehand,  viz  That  they 
will  only  come  now  to  Some  Resolutions  thereupon, 
the  principal  of  which  will  be,  that  the  House  do 
address  the  King  that  he  wo"^  be  pleasd  to  give 
Instructions  to  the  Gov^  of  our  Plantations  not  to 
pass  any  Act  for  Emitting  any  more  Bills  of  Credit 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        149 

without  its  being  first  approvd  of  here  —  and  I  expect 
on  the  23  Inst  it  will  be  resolvd  accordingly. 

thus  I  judgd  it  my  duty  to  give  thee  the  necessary 
Information  from  time  to  time  of  what  Steps  have 
been  and  are  like  to  be  taken  in  a  Matter  which  so 
nearly  affects  the  Plantations,  as  I  shall  also  continue 
to  do  for  the  future  who  am 

Thy  assured  Fr"^ 

R?  Partridge 

To  John  Wanton  Esq! 

Governor  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and 
Providence  Plantations 


THE    DUKE    OF    NEWCASTLE    TO    THE    GOVERNOR   AND    COM- 
PANY   OF    RHODE    ISLAND. 

Whitehall  iS'!"  April  1740. 
Gentlemen^ 

I  send  you  herewith,  by  His  Majesty's  Command, 
a  printed  Copy  of  an  Act  of  Parliament,^  which  was 
passed  this  Session,  for  the  more  effectual  securing 
and  encouraging  the  Trade  of  His  Majesty's  British 
Subjects  to  America,  and  for  the  Encouragement  of 
Seamen  to  enter  into  His  Majesty's  Service ;  I  am 
to  acquaint  you  with  His  Majesty's  Pleasure,  that 
you  should  cause  the  same  to  be  made  publick  in 
His  Majesty's  Province  under  your  Government.  I 
also  inclose  to  you  His  Majesty's  Royal  Proclama- 
tion relating  thereto. 


1  See  letter  of  the  Lords  of  AdmiraJty  to  the  Governor  and  Company  of  Rhode 
Island,  of  May  20,  1740,  on  p.  159. 


1 50  Correspondence  of  the 

You  will  observe,  that  there  is  a  Clause  in  this 
Act,  by  which  the  entire  property  of  all  Prizes,  that 
shall  be  made  by  any  Privateer,  in  consequence  of 
Commissions  granted  to  them  after  the  4'^  of  Janu- 
ary last,  by  Persons  authorized  for  that  purpose,  is 
vested  in  the  Captors,  except  as  to  the  Customs  and 
Dutys  mentioned  in  the  said  Act.  This  I  am  per- 
suaded, will  be  a  great  Inducement  to  His  Majesty's 
Subjects  to  fit  out  rival  Ships  against  the  Spaniards, 
which  you  will  encourage  Those  under  your  Govern- 
ment to  do,  as  soon  and  as  effectually  as  possible. 
And  His  Majesty  doubts  not  but  You  will  employ 
your  utmost  Diligence  and  Attention,  that  the  Ends 
proposed  by  this  Act  may  be  fully  obtained. 
I  am,  Gentlemen, 

Your  most  humble  Servant 

HoLLEs  Newcastle 

Gov!  and  Company  of  Rhode  Island 


GENERAL    SPOTSWOOD    TO    GOVERNOR    WANTON. 

Annap?  26'."  April  1740. 

Sir 

I  Expected  to  have  been  by  this  time  forwarder 
in  my  way  to  confer  w!  the  Northern  Governours 
about  the  grand  Expedition  now  on  foot,  but  the  Dif- 
ficulties and  delays  that  I  met  with  in  the  Govern- 
ment of  Virginia  has  retarded  my  Journey,  where- 
fore I  send  this  express  to  inform  you  the  sooner  of 
the  measures  I  have  Concerted  w?  the  Governour 
of  N.  Carolina  Virginia  and  Maryland;    and  more 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       151 

especially  of  that  one  necessary  step  wch  Requires 
to  be  first  settled,  I  mean  the  pay  of  the  Troops  w'ch 
ought  all  to  be  upon  one  uniform  footing,  otherwise 
when  the  new  Levies  of  every  Province  come  to 
serve  together,  Dissatisfactions,  and  Consequently 
mutinies,  might  arise  from  some  Receiving  higher  pay 
than  others;  There  are  scarce  any  two  Provinces  on 
this  Continent,  that  agree  in  the  Value  of  their  Cur- 
rency, and  in  every  one  of  'em  the  Exchange  between 
their  Currency  and  Sterling  is  Continually  varying: 
So  that  to  avoid  all  confusion  in  Acco"^  and  clearly 
to  Satisfie  the  Common  Soldiers,  that  they  are  all 
serving  upon  the  same  pay,  I  have  taken  upon  me  to 
Advise  that  the  pay  promis'd  'em  should  be  one 
Pistole  for  every  Kalendar  month ;  and  to  encourage 
several  sorts  of  men  to  enlist,  I  have  advis'd  a  Pub- 
lication, narrating  that  whereas  many  men  might  be 
desirous  of  leaving  some  Subsistance  money  with 
their  Families ;  Several  Debtors  might  be  able  to 
clear  off,  or  Compound  w*  their  Creditors ;  and  many 
Servants  might  obtain  their  Masters  leave  to  enlist, 
If  three  or  four  months  pay  were  promis'd  to  be 
advanc'd,  and  pay'd  to  their  Respective  assigns  after 
their  Embarkation :  I  have  had  the  experience  of 
these  kind  of  proposals  having  had  very  Good  Effects, 
when  in  the  Year  1716,  I  being  Governour  of  Vir- 
ginia, Rais'd  immediately  men,  and  sent  them  away 
to  the  Succour  of  S"  Carolina,  and  'twill  be  carrying 
on  the  King's  service  w*  greater  Frugality  than  by 
Giving  every  man  Bounty  money. 

So  soon  as  the  Adjutant  General  arrives  w*  the 
Kings  full  Instructions,  you  may  expect  to  hear  from 


152  Correspondence  of  the 

me  more  at  large  on  this  Subject:  In  the  mean 
while  I  desire  you'll  take  all  oppurtunities  to  let  me 
know  what  success  you  are  likely  to  have  in  Rais- 
ing men  for  the  intended  Expedition ;  That  I  may 
by  the  first  occasion  Transmit  such  Accounts  to  the 
Secretary  of  State  (as  I  am  Commanded)  to  be  forth- 
with laid  before  his  Majesty  for  his  Information  and 
Satisfaction. 
I  am  S' 

Your  Most  Obedient  Humble  Servant 

A  Spots  WOOD 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    GOVERNOR    WANTON. 

London  the  2*.  3*  mo.  1740 
Govern'^  Wanton 

My  last  to  thee  was  of  the  1 2  ult  per  Cap!  Rymes. 
This  now  brings  thee  the  Votes  of  the  House  of 
Commons  4  days  before  they  were  prorogu'd,  con- 
taining Several  Smart  Resolutions  respecting  the 
Paper  Currency  and  Gold  and  Silver  Coins  in  the 
Plantations  w"^  were  designed  (as  I  apprehend)  pre- 
paratory to  some  Law  to  be  passd  relating  thereto 
next  Sessions  of  Parliam\  which  Resolutions  were 
very  hastily  come  in  to,  they  being  proposd  and 
am-eed  on  at  a  Committee  of  the  whole  House  one 
day,  then  reported  and  concluded  on  the  next;  but 
it  was  by  the  House  of  Commons  onl}^  the  Lords 
did  nothing  at  all  in  it:  and  it  is  observable  that 
they  were  proposd  and  carryed  through  at  the  In- 
stance of  three  of  the  Members  principally  who  are 
of  the  side  of  the  Minority  of  the  House  being  Anti- 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       153 

Courtiers  viz.  S!  Jn?  Barnard  Sam'  Sandys  and  AlP 
Hume  Campbell  Esq?  and  its  beleivd  that  the  chief 
aim  of  some  of  them  in  it,  was  more  with  a  view  to 
puzle  and  perplex  the  Ministry  and  Spirit  up  the 
Plantations  against  them  than  any  thing  else,  but  be 
that  as  it  will  they  have  addressd  the  King  pursuant 
to  their  Resolutions  who  has  asur'd  them  that  he 
will  on  his  part  comply  with  what  is  desired  ; 

The  next  day  after  those  Matters  passd  the  House, 
I  reflecting  on  the  many  Inconveniencys  that  might 
attend  in  the  Consequence,  waited  on  Esqr  Sandys 
and  Hume  Campbell  at  their  Houses  where  I  was 
civilly  treated  and  had  a  great  deal  of  Conversation 
in  discourse  with  them,  Setting  forth  the  great  hard- 
ships and  Confusion  to  the  Colonys  that  woud  At- 
tend the  Consequence  of  the  Royal  Orders  pursuant 
to  their  Addresses  if  it  were  practicable  to  be  complyd 
with,  but  it  was  apprehended  that  it  could  not  be 
with  any  possibility ;  and  that  had  they  not  so  hastily 
passd  those  Resolutions  I  shou'd  have  desired  to 
have  been  heard  at  the  Bar  of  the  House  a2:ainst 
them,  but  at  present  (as  they  allowd)  I  was  pre- 
cluded, pretty  much  the  Substance  of  my  Argum'^ 
I  afterw^.'  committed  to  writing  w*  for  thy  &c  Satis- 
faction I  send  thee  herewith.^  what  effect  my  Rea- 
sonings (which  they  heard  with  attention)  may  have 
with  them  I  know  not  but  I  perswade  myself  those 
Gentlemen  were  a  little  Softned :  —  and  as  it  happend 
that  I  was  not  now  heard  before  the  House  it  is  as 
well,  seeing  at  next  Sessions  we  shall  have  this  Plea 
to  urge  that   I  had  not  the  opportunity  of  laying 

1  See  the  following  document. 


1 54  Correspondence  of  the 

before  them  the  many  Inconveniencys  that  w^  un- 
avoidably attend  the  Execution  of  their  Resolutions 
especially  too  as  there  was  not  time  for  digesting  our 
Arguments  so  duely  as  they  ought  to  be. 

Hume  Campbell  intimated  that  as  to  the  Charter 
Governm**  their  Intention  was  not  to  hurt  them  in 
their  privilidges  but  only  to  oblige  them  to  transmit 
their  Laws  hither  and  that  they  sh*?  send  over  answers 
to  the  Board  of  Trade  as  other  Colonys  did  when 
required  pusuant  to  addresses  of  Parliament;  so 
now  thou  willt  in  concert  with  the  Legislature  of  the 
Colony  give  me  proper  Instructions  how  to  act  against 
the  Parliam^  meets  again  to  do  business  w'^''  I  beleive 
will  scarce  be  this  Six  months. 

C.  Kilby  indeed  for  the  Massach^f  got  a  Petition 
delivered  to  the  House  just  in  time  and  was  heard 
at  the  Bar,  but  it  did  not  seem  to  make  much  Im- 
pression upon  them  so  as  to  alter  the  Scheme  of 
their  Intentions. 

As  to  the  Affair  of  the  Commission  *  we  have  not 
been  able  to  get  it  passd  yet  tho'  I  have  frequently 
pressd  for  it ;  the  reasons  of  its  being  retarded  I  refer 
thee  to  my  Solicitors  letter  for,  which  comes  inclosed, 
but  I  shall  still  pursue  it  till  its  accomplishd. 

As  to  publick  News,  the  War  with  Spain  is  con- 
tinued to  be  carried  on  with  Vigour,  the  French  still 
remain  Neuter,  and  as  long  as  they  do  so,  to  be  sure 
the  Dutch  will  take  no  part  in  our  Comotions  — 
for  the  rest  I  refer  to  the  Publick  Prints  herewith  sent 
and  remain 

Thy  assured  Friend 

RicH°  Partridge 

i  Commission  for  determining  the  Massachusetts  boundary. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        155 


Since  the  foregoing  I  attended  w'^  my  Solicitor 
at  the  L"^.'  Committee  of  Council  and  they  have  re- 
ferrd  my  Petition  for  a  Commission  to  the  Board  of 
Trade  to  consider  and  settle  the  Heads  of  a  Com- 
mission for  the  Boundary  after  having  called  the 
Partys  before  them. 

The  Parliam*  have  passd  a  Law  for  encouragem'  of 
Seamen  w*=**  I  send  thee  herewith  —  and  here  is  also 
a  list  of  the  Members  of  the  Lords  and  Commons, 

To  Governour  Wanton. 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO   MESSRS.    SANDYS^   AND    CAMPBELL.^ 

Relating  to  the  Resolution  of  the  House  of  Commons  about  Paper 
Currency  :  Arguments  urgd  to  SamJ  Sandys  and  AlexF  Hume 
Cambell  Esql"  per  R  P.^ 

That  the  Kings  Proclamation  and  Orders  to  the 
several  Governors  of  the  British  Plantations  in  con- 
sequence of  the  Addresses  of  the  House  would  be 
very  prejudicial  and  tend  to  putting  the  said  Plan- 
tations into  great  confusion  for  the  following  Rea- 
sons. 

For  that  should  the  Proclamation  be  issued  for 
reducing  Gold  and  Silver  Coin  agreeable  to  the 
Proclamation  of  Queen  Ann  Viz  to  6/10^?  per  oz  for 
Silver,  the  consequence  would  be  (if  it  took  effect) 

1  Samuel,  first  Baron  Sandys,  was  member  for  Worcester  from  1718  to  1743,  when 
he  became  Lord  Sandys  and  took  his  seat  in  the  Upper  House.  He  was  prominent 
as  an  opponent  of  the  Walpole  administration,  but,  although  he  held  several  lucrative 
court  appointments,  was  not  a  man  of  any  great  political  importance. 

2  Hume  Campbell  was  an  advocate  of  the  Court  of  King's  Bench,  and  was,  in  1742, 
Solicitor-General  to  the  Prince. 

3  Enclosed  in  Partridge's  letter  of  3  mo.  (May)  2, 1740, 


156  Correspondence  of  the 

that  all  Comodities  would  unavoidably  Sink  in  pro- 
portion thereto  which  would  greatly  affect  Contracts 
for  Goods  already  Sold  to  the  ruin  of  many. 

That  the  People  not  having  the  priviledge  of  Coin- 
ing any  money  are  under  a  necessity  of  a  Medium  of 
Trade  to  carry  on  their  Commerce,  all  Gold  and  Sil- 
ver passing  there  as  Merchandize  is  brought  up  to 
make  returns  for  Goods  imported  from  Great  Britain, 
they  being  constantly  in  great  distress  for  want  of 
a  sufficient  Supply  of  such  Comodities  as  are  suit- 
able to  send  over  to  pay  for  the  Goods  that  are  sent 
them  from  hence,  and  consequently  the  People  there 
allways  greatly  in  debt  to  Great  Britain  which  makes 
the  Ballance  of  Trade  in  favour  of  the  latter,  and 
that  will  naturally  drain  away  all  the  Gold  and  Silver 
from  amongst  them. 

That  should  the  People  there  be  prohibited  from 
Issuing  Paper  Money  (without  which  they  cannot 
carry  on  their  Commerce  and  Trade)  it  would  yet 
very  greatly  distress  them,  be  the  Ruin  of  many 
Familys  and  a  vast  hurt  to  the  several  Governments, 
for  that  if  the  intended  Proclamation  and  the  Royal 
Order  of  prohibition  take  effect  the  Consequence 
would  be  that  as  all  Landed  Estates  would  sink  to 
one  fourth  part  of  the  value ;  the  Paper  Bills  now 
current  would  be  of  course  equal  to  Gold  and  Sil- 
ver :  The  said  Bills  when  first  issued  were  lent  out 
on  Land  Security  on  the  following  or  like  manner 
Viz  To  a  Man  whose  Estate  was  worth  ^1600  they 
lent  ^1200  of  those  Bills  at  5  per  C!  Int'  to  be  repaid 
in  7  or  10  years  or  at  a  certain  period  of  time,  at 
which  time  the  Bills  were  to  be  called  in  and  sunk 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        1 5  7 

with  the  money  so  repaid  to  the  Government,  and 
more  issued  on  the  same  foot :  but  in  the  mean 
time  out  comes  the  Proclamation  and  Royal  Orders 
whereby  the  coin  is  reduced  the  Estate  sunk  in 
value  from  ^1600  to  ;!^400  so  that  the  proprietor 
looses  his  whole  Estate  because  he  took  up  ^1200 
upon  it,  which  the  Government  has  his  Land  in 
Mortgage  for ;  the  Mortgagor  is  therefore  Ruined, 
and  the  Colony  looses  ^800  out  of  the  ^1200  they 
lent,  and  must  yet  be  obligd  to  buy  up  their  Bills  at 
the  period  of  time  for  calling  them  in,  which  would 
greatly  distress  them,  and  put  them  as  is  before  said 
into  the  utmost  confusion. 

That  as  to  the  Charter  Governments,  they  have 
from  the  encouragement  given  them  by  their  Charter 
(particularly  Rhode  Island  for  whom  I  am  concern'd) 
Cultivated  and  improv'd  a  Wilderness  Country,  and 
defended  it  at  the  hazard  of  their  Lives  and  Estates 
from  the  Native  Indians  without  a  Shilling  Expence 
to  the  Crown  (tho'  its  well  known  other  Colonys  have 
caused  this  Nation  many  thousand  pounds) ;  They 
have  the  privilidge  of  making  Laws  among  them- 
selves for  the  good  Ordering  of  their  Government 
so  as  they  are  not  repugnant  to  the  Laws  of  Eng- 
land without  being  obligd  to  transmit  them  home, 
which  privilidge  they  have  now  enjoyed  for  a  great 
Number  of  Years  and  I  hoped  that  the  Commons  of 
Great  Britain  alhvays  tender  of  Liberty  and  property 
will  not  now  deprive  them  thereof,  especially  seeing 
they  are  already  Crampt  in  the  Foreign  Trade  and 
are  of  so  great  advantage  to  this  Kingdom  by  taking 
off  annually  considerable  quantitys  of  its  Manufac- 


158  Correspondence  of  the 

tures.  and  then  I  particularly  describd  and  Set  forth 
the  nature  and  different  manner  of  the  making  re- 
turns from  the  Plantations  to  pay  for  those  Manufac- 
tures S:c* 

And  that  as  to  the  rise  of  the  Exchange  I  did  not 
apprehend  it  was  owing  to  the  Emission  of  Bills  of 
Credit  as  had  been  Suggested,  for  in  Pennsilvania, 
New  Jersey  and  New  York  they  Emitted  consider- 
able quantitys  and  yet  the  Exchange  there  had  not 
advanced  40  per  O  this  20  years ;  tho  I  believe  I 
might  say  20  per  cent  in  20  years,  but  that  the  occa- 
sion of  so  great  a  difference  in  the  Exchange  between 
New  England  and  Great  Britain  was  from  quite  an 
other  Reason,  as  that  they  were  so  constantly  over- 
loaded with  Goods  from  England  and  allways  largely 
in  debt  for  want  of  a  Supply  of  Returns  sufficient 
to  pay  for  them,  that  the  Factors  were  eager  in 
buying  up  whatever  Commoditys  was  brought  to 
Market  suitable  to  be  sent  home,  as  fast  as  ever  they 
came ;  that  they  bid  upon  one  another  and  thereby 
enhanced  the  prices  one  upon  another  which  of 
Course  will  inevitably  raise  the  price  of  Silver  and 
Gold  and  that  is  certainly  what  Governs  the  Ex- 
change &c 

Endorsed :  Some  hints  of  R.  P.'s  Arguments  w'^ 
2  membf  of  the  H?  of  Commons. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        159 


THE    LORDS    OF    ADMIRALTY    TO    THE    GOVERNOR   AND    COM- 
PANY   OF    RHODE    ISLAND. 

By  the  Commiss"  for  executing  the  Office  of  Lord  High  Admiral 
of  Great  Britain  and  Ireland  &c. 

Whereas  by  an  Act  passed  the  last  Session  of 
Parliament,  (entitled,  an  Act  for  the  more  effectual 
securing  and  encouraging  the  Trade  of  His  Majes- 
ty's British  Subjects  to  America ;  and  for  the  Encour- 
agement of  Seamen  to  enter  into  His  Majesty's  Ser- 
vice) it  is,  amongst  other  Things,  therein  enacted ; 
"  That  any  Person  or  Persons  in  any  Part  of  Amer- 
"  ica  or  elsewhere,  by  us  empowered  and  appointed, 
"  shall,  from  and  after  the  Fourth  Day  of  January, 
"  One  Thousand  Seven  Hundred  and  Thirty  Nine, 
"  at  the  Request  of  any  British  Owner  or  Owners  of 
"  any  Ship  or  Vessel,  given  such  Bail  and  Security 
*'  as  have  been  usually  taken  upon  granting  Com- 
"  missions  or  Letters  of  Marque,  (except  only  for 
"  the  Payments  of  the  Tenth  of  the  Value  of  Prizes 
"  which  shall  be  taken,  to  the  Lord  High  Admiral 
"  or  Commissioners  for  Executing  the  Ofhce  of  Lord 
"  High  Admiral  for  the  Time  being)  cause  to  be 
"  issued  forth  in  the  usual  Manner,  One  or  more 
"  Commission  or  Commissions,  to  any  Person  or 
"  Persons,  whom  such  Owner  or  Owners  shall  nomi- 
"  nate  to  be  Commander,  or  in  case  of  Death,  suc- 
"  cessively  Commander  of  such  Ship  or  Vessel,  for 
"  the  attacking,  surprizing,  seizing,  and  taking,  by 
"  and  with  such  Ship  Vessel,  or  the  Crew  thereof, 
"  any  Place  or  Fortress  upon  the  Land,  or  any  Ship 
"  or  Vessel,  Goods,  Ammunition,  Arms,  Stores  of 
"  War  or   Merchandizes,  belonging  to,  or  posessed 


i6o  Correspondence  of  the 

"  by  any  of  His  Majesty's  Enemies,  in  any  Sea,  Creek, 
"  Haven,  or  River. 

These  are  therefore  to  empower  you  the  Gov- 
ernor, and  Company  of  His  Majesty's  Colony  of 
Rhode  Island,  and  Providence  Plantation  in  New 
England,  and  by  these  Presents,  We  do  empower 
and  appoint  you  the  said  Governor  and  Company, 
to  cause  to  be  issued  forth  pursuant  to  the  said  Act, 
by  Warrant  under  your  Hand,  and  the  Seal  of  the 
said  Island  and  Plantation,  directed  to  the  Judge  of 
the  Admiralty  of  the  said  Colony  of  Rhode  Island, 
and  Providence  Plantation,  Commissions,  or  Letters 
of  Marque,  at  the  Request  of  any  British  Owner  or 
Owners  of  any  Ship  or  Vessel,  to  any  Person  or  Per- 
sons, whom  such  Owner  or  Owners  shall  nominate 
to  be  Commander  or  incase  of  Death  successively 
Commanders  of  such  Ship  or  Vessel,  and  to  cause 
such  Bail  and  Security  to  be  taken  as  is  directed  by 
the  said  Act,  and  moreover  to  cause,  that  in  grant- 
ing such  Commissions  or  Letters  of  Marque,  all 
other  Things  be  had  and  done  conformable  to,  and  as 
the  said  Act  requires  ;  For  which  This  shall  be  your 
Warrant.  Given  under  Our  Hands,  and  the  Seal  of 
the  Ofifice  of  Admiralty,  this  20'!"  Day  of  May  1 740. 

D.  Lyndon. 

Tho  Clutterbuck. 

Vere 

To  The  Governor  and  Company  of  His  Majesty's 
Colony  of  Rhode  Island,  and  Providence  Plan- 
tation in  New  En2:land 

By  Command  of  their  Lordships. 

Berreke 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        i6i 

RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO   GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

London  4  mo.  the  19'!"  1740 
Governor  Wanton 

Since  the  foregoing  Several  of  the  Agents  for  our 
Plantation  Governments  have  been  again  sent  for  by 
the  Lords  of  Trade  to  attend  them  on  the  Subject  of 
the  Bills  of  Credit  who  intimated  to  us  that  when 
we  sh^  receive  answers  to  the  respective  letters  they 
had  writ,  We  would  bring  the  same  to  their  Board 
and  that  if  we  had  any  thing  to  offer  on  that  head 
we  might  lay  it  before  them  in  writing,  upon  which  I 
acquainted  that  Board  that  I  had  duely  attended  the 
House  of  Commons  whilst  that  Matter  was  debated 
there  and  I  intended  to  have  Petition'd  that  I  might 
have  been  heard  at  the  Bar  of  the  House  against 
their  Resolutions  which  were  so  hastily  carried  thro' 
that  I  was  precluded :  That  afterwards  I  waited  on  2 
of  the  principal  Members  concern'd  in  conducting 
that  Affair  in  the  House  viz  Esq'.^  Sandys  and  Alex!" 
Hume  Cambell  with  whom  I  had  a  pretty  deal  of 
discourse  setting  forth  the  great  Inconveniencys  that 
would  be  the  consequence  of  their  Resolutions,  and 
that  I  had  committed  to  writing^  some  of  my  argu- 
ments used  w^^  those  Gentlemen  which  having  with 
me  I  presented  it  to  that  Board  for  their  purusal :  — 
at  the  same  time  I  also  signified  that  it  was  my 
opinion  as  well  as  some  others  this  Affair  had  been 
carried  on  principally  with  a  view  to  distress  the 
Ministry  and  the  Plantations  more  than  any  thing 
else :  but  that  I  did  not  look  upon  it  practicable  to 

1  See  p.  155. 


1 62  Correspondence  of  the 

be  carried  into  Execution,  —  an  other  Copy  of  my 
said  Papers  is  here  inclosed. 

And  now  also  brings  thee  Copy  of  the  Lords  of 
Trades  Report^  to  the  L*^.*  Committee  of  Council 
upon  a  reference  for  drawing  up  a  proper  draught 
of  Heads  and  Clauses  of  a  Commission  to  be  Issued 
for  setling  our  Boundarys  Line,  after  we  had  waited 
on  the  Board  a  considerable  time  and  carefully  settled 
all  the  Articles  and  now  we  shall  go  on  pursuing  the 
Affair  till  the  Comission  be  compleated. 

The  War  continues  with  Spain,  France  holds 
Neuter  still  and  when  there  will  be  any  alteration 
therein  is  alltogether  uncertain  for  the  rest  I  refer  to 
the  prints  herewith  sent  and  remain  with  due  re- 
spects. 

Thy  assured  Friend 

RicH°  Partridge 

thy  nephew  Cap*  Benj.  Wanton  is  safe  arrived 
here  from  Carrolina  and  is  for  going  back  directly 
thither  in  the  Same  Ship. 

Thy  Packett  for  thee  of  prints  I  send  to  Benj. 
Bagnall  (per  Cap*  Snelling)  at  Boston  to  forwarded 
to  thee. 

5  mo.  s'.""  1 740 

I  have  writt  thee  allready  of  19*?"  ult  as  above  to 
which  I  refer :  a  War  with  France  is  lately  talkt  off 
afresh  as  if  they  were  now  in  earnest,  but  whether  it 
will  blow  over  or  not  time  must  discover.  I  send 
thee  per  this  Conveyance  the  abstract  of  the  Laws 
past  the  last  Sessions  of  Parliament  and  a  Book  of 

1  This  report  is  not  in  the  archives. 


"734-174° 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       163 

Trade  and  Sundry  news  papers  per  Peter  Harrison 
a  Passenger  with  Cap?  Patterson 

R  Partridge 

To  John  Wanton  Esqf 

Governour  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and 
Providence  Plantations 


GOVERNOR   BELCHER   TO   GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

Sir 

I  Receiv'd  the  Inclosed  by  the  last  Post  from  New 
York  to  be  forwarded  to  your  Honour  I  am  now 
to  inform  Your  Honour  that  the  last  Week  arrivd 
to  one  of  our  Out  Harbours  a  Ship  of  upwards  One 
hundred  Tuns  from  the  Canaries  one  William  M5 
who  pretends  to  be  last  from  Madera.  I  am  told 
the  M',  tho  an  Englishman,  is  a  Roman,  a  Subject 
of  Spain,  and  marry 'd  at  the  Canaries.  I  have  good 
reason  to  beleive  he  has  run  his  Cargoe  a  Shore  in 
Some  of  our  Out  Ports,  and  the  Officers  are  making 
Search  after  it.  The  Ship  Came  full  hither,  and  was 
met  empty  going,  as  the  M'  said  (when  he  was  hal'd) 
to  Rhode  Island  —  others  say  She  was  bound  to 
New  York,  and  its  generally  Suppos'd  She  is  come 
for  a  load  of  Provisions  for  the  Havanna  or  some 
other  parts  of  the  Spanish  West  Indies  for  which 
(by  all  advices)  the  Spaniards  are  greatly  distrest. 
This  I  have  thought  proper  to  Communicate  to  you 
that  there  may  be  a  good  look  out  for  Seizing  this 
Ship  if   She  comes  your  way  —  I  am  in  all  your 


164  Correspondence  of  the 

Commands  for  His  Majesty's  Service,  and  for  your 
own,  Sir, 

Your  Honours  Most  Obedient  and  Most  Humble 
Serv! 

J.  Belcher 

Boston  June  30.  1 740. 

Gov'  Wanton 


COLONEL   WILLIAM   BLAKENEY   TO   THE    GOVERNOR   AND 
COMPANY    OF    RHODE    ISLAND. 

New  York  7  July  1740. 

Sirs 

As  the  several  Companies  of  the  Regiment  of 
Foot  now  raising  in  America  commanded  by  the 
Hon"^  Colol.  William  Gooch  ^  are  to  remain  till  com- 
pleated  in  the  respective  Provinces  in  which  they 
are  raised,  it  will  be  necessary  to  pay  the  Officers 
commissioned  in  America  their  Subsistence  from 
the  Dates  of  their  Commissions  and  the  private  men 
from  the  days  of  their  being  regularly  attested  before 
a  Magistrate  and  as  it  is  thought  most  for  the  Inter- 
est of  his  Majesty's  Service  that  the  Governours  in 
their  respective  Provinces  be  entrusted  with  this 
Payment  I  have  sent  you  here  enclosed  an  Estimate 
of  the  Subsistence  of  one  Company  for  three  Months 
amounting  [to]  ^333.11.6  Sterling  which  for  the 
two  Companies  to  be  raised  in  your  Province  is 
^667,3.  —  which  Sum,  or  as  much  thereof  as  there 
may  be  occasion  for,  I  desire  you  will  advance  and 

1  William  Gooch  was  governor  of  Virginia  from  1727  to  1747,  and  accompanied  the 
Virginia  forces  to  Cartagena  in  1741. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        165 

pay  to  said  Companies,  according  to  said  Estimate, 
taking  of  each  Captain  one  Receipt  for  the  Subsist- 
ence of  himself  and  Company,  one  Receipt  of  the 
first  and  second  Lieutenants  their  Pay  per  Day  being 
the  same  and  one  Receipt  of  the  Ensigns,  mention- 
ing in  each  Receipt  the  Exchange  you  pay  them  at 
for  the  Sterling  in  your  Currency.  Of  these  Re- 
ceipts (a  Form  whereof  is  also  inclosed)  the  Officers 
are  to  sign  four  Duplicates  of  the  same  Tenor  and 
Date,  one  whereof  please  to  keep  for  your  own 
Voucher  and  transmit  the  other  three  to  me;  and 
for  your  Reimbursement  of  what  you  shall  thus  ad- 
vance and  pay  please  to  draw  on  me  here  for  the 
same  in  Sterling  at  such  Exchange  as  is  most  for 
the  Interest  of  the  Service  and  your  Bills  shall  meet 
with  due  Honour. 
I  am  Sirs 

Your  most  obedient  humble  Servant 

Will  Blakeney. 

The  Officers  from  Europe  are  paid  Subsistence 
to  the  24  Instant. 

The  Governor  and  Company  of  Rhode  Island. 


COLONEL    WILLIAM    GOOCH    TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

Sir 

As  You  are  already  apprized  of  the  Method  of 
Levying  the  Forces  for  the  intended  Expedition  ;  I 
have  only  to  desire  the  Favour  of  a  particular  Ac- 
count from  You  of  the  Number  of  Men  You  have 


1 66  Correspondence  of  the 

or  are  likely  to  Raise  directed  to  the  Lieu*  Gov""  of 
Virginia  at  New  York. 

I  have  inclosed  You  Commissions  for  Two  Com- 
panies, (the  Number  of  Men  at  present  expected 
from  Your  Government,)  and  sent  You  the  like  Num- 
ber of  Lieutenants  and  Serjeants,  with  Arms,  Cloath- 
ing  for  Officers  and  Powder;  so  must  desire  You  to 
form  the  Men  you  have  Inlisted  accordingly;  I  have 
likewise  desired  Coll!  Blakeney,  who  has  the  Man- 
agement of  the  Cash,  to  Remit  You  Money,  or  Credit 
to  raise  it  in  order  to  pay  the  Men  from  the  time  of 
their  Inlisting ;  and  to  avoid  any  disappointment  that 
may  hereafter  attend  this  Service,  I  must  earnestly 
entreat  You  to  provide  Transports,  and  put  the 
Troops  on  board  at  such  a  Convenient  Season,  that 
I  may  depend  on  their  being  at  the  place  of  Rendez- 
vous within  the  Capes  of  Virginia  before  the  Midle 
of  September. 

I  am  perswaded  Nothing  will  be  wanting  on  Your 

part,  in    an   Affair   of  this  importance,  in  which   I 

heartily  wish  You  Success ;  and  have  the  Honour  to 

be.  Sir 

Your  most  Obed'  Hum''  Servant 

Will:  Gooch 
New  York  the  S'.""  of  July  1740. 

P.S.  please  to  date  the  Commissions  the  cf^  of 
June  and  Endorse  on  the  back  the  date  of  delivery 

The  Governour  of  Rhode  Island 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         167' 

GOVERNOR   RICHARD   WARD ^   TO    COLONEL    GOOCH. 

I  Rec'^  your  favour  by  L*  Howard ;  with  the  Com- 
missions for  the  two  Companies ;  and  now  inform  you 
of  our  proceeding  in  Levying  Troops  for  the  expedi- 
tion ag*'  the  Spaniards.  On  receiving  his  Maj'^^  Or- 
ders and  Instructions  Our  assembly  forthwith  gave 
a  Bounty  to  every  efective  Person  that  should  enlist 
in  his  Maj^^  Service  but  not  knowing  what  number  of 
Troops  his  Majesty  Required  of  this  Colony  did  with- 
out any  regard  of  any  proportion  w*^  the  other  Gov- 
ernments: and  with  the  Utmost  Zeal  and  Vigour  with 
pleasure  and  chearfulness  Enlisted  ab*  270  Men  (tho 
wee  are  the  least  Government  on  the  Continent  that 
are  ordered  to  Enlist  any)  and  have  out  of  them  com- 
pleated  two  full  companies  of  a  hundred  men  each. 

This  Government  have  also  hired  two  Transports 
Sufficient  for  the  Troops  raised ;  which  will  be  at  the 
Rendezvous  in  Virginia  by  the  time  prefixed  and 
nothing  Si"  in  our  power  shall  be  wanting  on  the  part 
of  the  Government  for  the  carrying  on  an  Armament 
w'^^  is  of  such  a  vast  advantage  to  his  Majestie's  Do- 
minions in  General  and  to  his  Subjects  in  America 
in  particular ;  If  any  thing  be  omitted  by  us  I  desire 
youl  acquaint  us  with  it  and  your  Instruction  shall 
be  carefully  observed 

I  beg  leave  Sr  to  Assure  you 

That  I  am  with  the  utmost  Deference 

Your  most  obedient  and  humble  Serv* 

Endorsed  :  Copy  to  Col?  Gooch. 

1  Richard  Ward  was,  on  July  i,  chosen  Governor  by  the  Assembly  in  place  of  John 
Wanton,  deceased.     Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  IV.  576. 


1 68  Correspondence  of  the 


GOVERNOR  WARD  TO  COLONEL  BLAKENEY. 

I  was  honoured  with  Yours  of  7'^  July  by  M?^  How- 
ard One  of  Our  Lieutenants  and  communicated  the 
Same  to  the  Gen!  Assembly  of  this  Colony  who  have 
desired  me  to  Acquaint  You,  that  this  Government 
on  the  Rec*  of  his  Maj'  Instructions  immediately 
determined  to  Shew  their  Zeal  on  this  Occasion  and 
for  the  more  speedy  enlisting  as  large  a  Number  of 
Men  as  We  possibly  could  was  the  first  of  the  Brit- 
ish Plantations  that  gave  a  Premium  for  that  Pur- 
pose. 

As  We  did  not  know  what  Number  of  Men  would 
be  wanted  or  expected  from  Us  and  being  apprised 
of  the  Importance  of  the  Expedition  we  have  raised 
about  270  which  we  beg  Leave  to  Observe  is  vastly 
more  in  Proportion  than  what  any  of  Our  Neighbours 
have  or  propose  to  raise  and  in  a  few  days  shall  Select 
out  of  them  the  best  and  most  effective  Men  to  con- 
stitute the  two  Companies. 

We  are  also  hiring  Transports  and  Purchasing 
Provisions  to  carry  them  to  Virginia  the  Place  of 
Rendezvous;  where  we  Suppose  they  will  enter  into 
his  Majesty's  Service  and  be  further  provided  for. 

As  we  shall  strictly  adhere  to  these  your  In- 
structions So  hope  you  will  from  Time  to  Time  be 
pleased  to  communicate  to  Us  what  further  may  be 
done  on  Our  Parts,  whereby  we  may  distinguish 
Our  Selves  to  his  Majesty  on  this  Occasion  and  merit 
your  approbation  which  this  Colony  will  be  very 
proud  of. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        169 

Permit  me,  Sf  to  Assure  You  that  I  am  with  the 
Utmost  Regard 

Your  most  Obedient  and  most  humble  Servant 

RichP  Ward 

Newport  on  Rhode  Island  July  17'."  1740 

Endorsed:    Copy  Gov"^?  Ward's    Letter   to    Col? 
Blakeney 


JOSIAH   WILLARD^   to    GOVERNOR   WARD. 

Sir 

I  am  commanded  by  the  Governour  and  Council 
of  this  Province  to  acquaint  your  Hon!"  that  a  Num- 
ber of  Persons  in  this  Province  (and  very  few  of  them 
in  Trade)  have  entered  into  an  Agreement  for  making 
and  emitting  a  large  Quantity  of  Bills  or  Notes  of 
Hand  to  pass  in  Commerce  in  Lieu  of  Money ;  and 
have  now  proceeded  so  far  as  to  order  the  making 
their  Plates ;  That  these  Notes  have  but  a  Slender 
Foundation,  and  no  provision  made  to  Secure  any 
certain  Value  to  the  Possessor  of  them  ;  So  that  if 
these  Bills  Should  get  abroad,  and  obtain  a  Credit 
among  Some  People  for  a  little  time  (for  it  can't  be 
long)  there  is  great  Danger  that  they  will  be  im- 
posed upon  to  their  great  Loss  and  Damage  ;  and 
therefore  the  Governour  and  Council  have  issued  a 
Proclamation  to  inform  all  Persons  concerned  of  their 
Hazzard  in  taking  these  Bills ;  and  as  the  Corre- 
spondence between  the  Inhabitants  of  your  Govern- 
ment and   this  may   Occasion   these  Notes  getting 

1  Secretary  of  the  Province  of  Massachusetts. 


170  Correspondence  of  the 

among  your  People,  The  Governour  and  Council 
have  directed  me  to  advise  you  of  this  Affair,  that 
So  you  may  take  those  Measures  you  may  think 
proper  for  Securing  your  People  against  being  im- 
posed upon  by  these  Notes 

I  am  Yo'  Hon"  most  Obedient  humble  Servant 

J.  WiLLARD 

Boston,  July  17, 1740 

Gov'  Ward 


ANDREW    STONE  1    TO    THE    GOVERNOR    AND    COMPANY    OF 
RHODE   ISLAND. 

Whitehall  20'.'' July  1740 
Gentlemen^ 

The  Lords  Justices,  appointed  for  the  Adminis- 
tration of  the  Government  during  His  Majesty's 
Absence,  having  thought  fit  to  issue  a  Proclamation, 
appointing  the  Distribution  of  Prizes  taken,  and  the 
Bounty  for  taking  Ships  of  War  from  the  Enemy, 
agreeable  to  a  late  Act  of  Parliament  in  that  behalf, 
I  send  you  herewith  several  printed  Copys  of  the 
said  Proclamation,  that  you  may  cause  the  same  to 
be  made  publick  in  His  Majesty's  Colony  under  your 
Government.     I  am  Gentlemen, 

Your  most  Obedient  humble  Servant 

Andrew  Stone 

Gov'  and  Company  of  Rhode  Island. 


1  A  prominent  politician,  who  was  at  this  time  under-secretary  of  state  to  the  Duke 
of  Newcastle,  secretary  to  the  Lords  Justices,  and  joint  collector  of  papers  in  the  office 
of  the  secretary  of  state. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       171 

LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR   CLARKE^  TO   GOVERNOR  WARD. 

N  :  York  July  21'.*  1740. 
Sir 

Coll  Gooch  on  his  leaving  this  place  which  he  did 
last  Wednesday,  desired  me  to  acquaint  you  that  he 
would  have  the  Men  who  go  from  your  province  on 
the  Expedition  come  to  New  York,  from  whence  they 
will  go  to  Virginia  under  the  Convoy  of  His  Majes- 
ties Ship  the  Ludlow  Castle,  where  Coll  Gooch  will 
join  them,  and  proceed  with  them  to  the  place  of 
Rendezvous,  he  propose's  that  all  the  Troops  be 
within  the  Capes  of  Virginia  before  the  Midle  of 
September,  and  he  hope's  you  will  take  such  order 
therein  that  the  Ships  you  hire  to  transport  yours 
may  be  got  ready  in  time     I  am  Sir 

your  most  obed'  humble  Serv* 

Geo  [Clarke] 

Gov'  of  Rhode  Island 


COLONEL  BLAKENEY  TO  THE  GOVERNOR  AND  COMPANY  OF 
RHODE  ISLAND. 

New  York  21  July  1740. 
Sirs 

As  the  Circumstances  possibly  may  be  the  same 

with  you,  as  in  the  other  Provinces,  in  relation  to 

1  The  signature  is  nearly  illegible.  George  Clarke  belonged  to  a  Somersetshire 
family.  He  was  appointed  Secretary  of  the  Province  of  New  York  in  1703,  made  a 
member  of  the  Council  in  1715,  and  Lieutenant-Governor  in  1736.  In  1743  he  was 
superseded  by  Clinton,  and,  two  years  later,  sailed  for  England  with  a  fortune  esti- 
mated at  £100,000,  which  he  accumulated  in  America. 


172  Correspondence  of  the 

the  Troops  now  raising  in  America,  I  give  you  the 
trouble  of  this,  to  communicate  to  you  what  I  have 
wrote  to  them. 

You  will  be  pleased  to  follow  his  Majestys  Instruc- 
tions to  you  with  regard  to  the  Levies  in  your  Pro- 
vince, and  to  give  the  Commissions  you  receive,  as 
far  as  they  will  go,  to  the  first  of  the  Gentlemen, 
warranted  by  you  to  levy,  who  first  shall  have  com- 
pleated  their  Companies ;  and  if  there  are  any  for 
whom  you  have  not  Commissions,  to  them  you  are 
to  give  Certificates  of  their  having  raised  their  sev- 
eral Companies,  and  that  pursuant  to  his  Majesty's 
private  Instructions  to  you,  you  had  promised  them 
Commissions,  which  Certificates  they  are  to  show 
to  Lord  Cathcart  or  to  the  Commander  in  Chief 
for  the  time  being,  who  will  have  blank  Commissions 
to  fill  up,  and  in  the  meantime  you  will  furnish 
them  with  money  for  their  Subsistence  Viz  to  every 
commissioned  or  certified  Officer  from  the  date  of 
his  Commission  or  Certificate,  the  Captains  at  Seven 
Shillings  and  Six  pence  Sterling  per  day  each ;  the 
first  and  Second  Lieutenants  at  three  Shillings  and 
Six  pence  per  day  each,  the  Ensigns  and  Adjutants 
at  three  Shillings  per  day  each  ;  the  Surgeons  Mate 
at  two  Shillings  per  day ;  and  the  private  men,  under 
Commission  or  Certificate,  according  to  the  inclosed 
Estimate,  for  a  Captain  and  his  Company,  which  I 
now  send  you  in  Case  of  any  Mistake  in  what  was 
formerly  sent  you. 

Of  two  Companies,  compleated  here ;  the  Musters 
have  been  made  up  from  the  25  day  of  June  last  to 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        173 

the  24  August  next  both  days  included ;  and  their 
Subsistence,  for  that  time,  has  been  issued  to  their 
respective  Captains  accordingly ;  the  Twenty  fourth 
day  of  the  Month  being  the  general  Pay-Day  of  the 
Army,  to  which  day  the  Musters  are  made  up  every 
two  Months,  and  to  which  the  Accounts  are  to  be 
made  up  and  Receipts  taken,  paying  each  Months 
Subsistence  per  Advance ;  that  is,  the  Month  from 
the  25'''  Instant  to  the  24'*'  of  August  next  inclusive, 
on  the  25'''  Instant;  and  so  on. 

And  in  order  to  furnish  you  with  money  for 
such  Subsistence,  in  the  most  convenient  method  I 
can  think  of,  for  your  Ease  and  the  Advantage  of  the 
Service,  I  have,  herewith  inclosed,  remitted  you  the 
four  following  first  Bills  of  Exchange  (the  2*^.^  and 
3"^.^  whereof  shall  be  transmitted  to  you  next  Post) 
dated  19*^  Instant  at  30  days  sight  to  your  Order  on 
Henry  Pelham  Esqy  Paymaster  General  &c  amount- 
ing to  the  Sum  of  ^667.3  Sterling  Viz* 


N°37 

I  for 

^250 

38 

I  for 

"150 

39 

I  for 

"167.3. 

40 

I  for 

A.  Bills 

for 

100 

/667.^. 

In  all 

please  to  negotiate  at  the  best  Exchange  you  can  and 
apply  towards  paying  the  Levies  at  that  Exchange ; 
and  what  you  may  further  have  occasion  for  as  the 
Companies  are  compleated,  please  to  advise  me  and 
it  shall  be  remitted  you.  If  there  is  any  thing  to  be 
rectified,  or  if  any  thing  occurs  wherein  my  Concur- 


174  Correspondence  of  the 

rence  is  needful  I  beg  you  will  let  me  know  it.    I  am 

Sirs 

Your  most  humble  Servant 

Will:  Blakeney. 

To  The   Hon^!''  the   Governor  and  Company  of 
Rhode  Island. 


GOVERNOR   WARD    TO    COLONEL   GOOCH. 

Your  Favour  of  the  8'!*  instt  with  the  Inclosed 
Commissions  I  have  rec?  and  am  now  to  inform  You 
that  this  Colony  on  the  Arrival  of  his  Majesty'  In- 
structions zealously  pursu'd  the  most  probable  meth- 
ods to  encourage  Persons  to  inlist  in  this  Expedi- 
tion and  have  rais'd  about  270  Men  out  of  which 
we  shall  select  a  Sufhcient  Number  to  constitute  two 
good  Companies. 

We  are  hiring  Transports  to  carry  them  to  Virginia 
and  hope  to  be  there  by  the  Time  you  appoint  and 
shall  draw  on  Col!  Blakeney  agreably  to  your  Orders. 

As  we  have  hitherto  been  so  forward  (even  beyond 
any  of  Our  Neighbours)  in  promoting  this  Grand 
Design ;  So  you  may  depend  we  shall  continue  'till 
we  have  discharg'd  the  whole  of  Our  Duty,  for  which 
Purpose  we  shall  expect  your  Instructions  in  what 
you  may  think  further  necessary  to  be  done  on  Our 
Parts. 

Permit  me  S'  to  Assure  You  that  I  am  with  the 
Utmost  deference, 

Your  most  Obed!  humb!  Serv' 
Newport  on  Rhode  Is?  July  24'"  1740. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         175 


COLONEL    BLAKENEY    TO    GOVERNOR   WARD. 

New  York  18  Aug'  1740 
Sir 

As  I  wrote  to  you  and  the  Company  fully  on  the 
21**  of  last  month  and  had  finished  my  Letter  before 
yours  of  the  17'^  of  said  month  came  to  hand  I  did 
not  then  acknowledge  the  Receipt  of  it.  At  present 
I  give  you  the  trouble  of  this  with  regard  to  a  para- 
graph in  your  said  Letter  which  says  —  "  We  are 
"  also  hiring  Transports  and  purchasing  Provisions 
"  to  carry  them  to  Virginia  the  Place  of  Rendezvous, 
"  where  we  suppose  they  will  enter  into  his  Majesty's 
"  Service  and  be  further  provided  for  "  —  Least  there 
should  be  any  mistake  in  so  material  a  point  I  now 
acquaint  you  that  the  Troops  are  lookt  upon  as  en- 
tered into  His  Majesty's  Service  immediately  on  their 
being  duely  and  regularly  enlisted ;  that  Virginia  is 
named  a  place  of  Rendezvous  where  the  Troops  from 
the  different  Colonies  in  America  are  to  meet  in 
order  to  proceed  together  under  Convoy  to  the  gen- 
eral Rendezvous  of  the  Forces  from  Great  Britain,  in 
Jamaica,  or  wherever  else  His  Majesty  shall  think 
proper  to  appoint  it ;  and  that  every  Province  is  to 
furnish  Transports  and  Provisions  for  their  respec- 
tive Numbers  till  such  time  as  they  join  the  Forces 
at  that  general  Rendezvous  in  the  West  Indies.  If 
there  is  any  thing  that  wants  further  Explanation, 
please  to  let  me  know.  I  am  with  all  regard  Sir 
Your  most  humble  Servant 

Will:  Blakeney. 

To  The  Hon^!^  Richard  Ward  Esq"" 
Governor  of  Rhode  Island  at  Newport 


1 76  Correspondence  of  the 

JOHN    COURAUD^   TO    THE    GOVERNOR    AND    COMPANY    OF 
RHODE    ISLAND. 

Whitehall  August  22^  1740 
Gentlemen^ 

I  herewith  inclose  an  Additional  Instruction^ 
signed  by  the  Lords  Justices,  for  effectually  putting 
in  Execution  an  Act  passed  in  the  Sixth  year  of  Her 
late  Majesty  Queen  Anne,  Intituled,  An  Act  for 
ascertaining  the  Rates  of  Foreign  Coins  in  her  Ma- 
jesty s  Plantations  in  Amei^ica ;  You  will  please  to 
take  [note]  that  the  said  Instructions  be  duly  com- 
plyed  with  ;  I  am  Gentlemen, 

Your  most  obedient  humble  Servant 

John  Couraud 

Governor  and  Company  of  Rhode  Island. 


THE  LORDS  JUSTICES  TO  THE  GOVERNOR  AND  COMPANY  OF 
RHODE  ISLAND.^ 

Instructions  to  the  Governor  and  Company  of  His  Majesty's 
Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plantation  in  New 
England  in  America,  for  the  better  observation  of  the  Act  of  the 
6'^  of  Queen  Anne,  for  ascertaining  the  Rates  of  foreign  Coins 
in  America.  Given  at  Whitehall,  the  Twenty  first  Day  of 
August  1740.    In  the  Fourteenth  Year  of  His  Majesty's  Reign. 

Whereas  An  Act  of  Parliament  was  passed  in  the 
sixth  Year  of  Her  late  Majesty  Queen  Anne,  Enti- 
tuled.  An  Act  for  ascertaining  the  Rates  of  foreign 
Coins  in  her  Majesty's  Plantations  in  America; 
And  whereas  Complaints  have  been  made,  that  the 
said  Act  has  not  been  observed  as  it  ought  to  have 


1  Secretary  to  the  Lords  Justices.  2  See  the  following  document. 

8  Enclosed  in  the  preceding  letter. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        177 

been  in  many  of  His  Majesty's  Colonies  and  Plan- 
tations in  America,  by  means  whereof  many  indirect 
Practices  have  grown  up,  and  various  and  illegal 
Currencies  have  been  introduced  in  several  of  the 
said  Colonies  and  Plantations,  contrary  to  the  true 
intent  and  meaning  of  the  said  Act,  and  to  the  Pre- 
judice of  the  Trade  of  His  Majesty's  Subjects,  in  Con- 
sequence of  which  Complaints,  An  humble  Address 
was  presented  the  last  Sessions,  by  the  House  of  Com- 
mons to  his  Majesty,  "  That  he  would  be  graciously 
"  pleased  to  require  and  command  the  respective 
"  Governors  of  his  Colonies  and  Plantations  in  Amer- 
"  ica,  effectually  to  observe  the  said  Act  of  the  sixth 
"  of  Queen  Anne  " ;  It  is  therefore  His  Majesty's 
Royal  Will  and  Pleasure,  and  you  are  hereby  strictly 
required  and  commanded  to  take  the  most  effectual 
care  for  the  future.  That  the  said  Act  be  punctually 
and  bona  fide  observed  and  put  in  Execution,  accord- 
ing to  the  true  intent  and  meaning  thereof.  And  to 
the  end  that  His  Majesty's  commands  herein  maybe 
fully  made  known  to  all  His  Subjects  within  your 
Government,  and  that  none  of  them  may  pretend 
Ignorance  thereof  You  are  hereby  further  required 
and  commanded  to  publish  this  Instruction  in  such 
manner  as  may  best  answer  his  Majesty's  gracious 
Intentions  herein  signified. 

Wilmington,  P. 

Jo.  Cart. 

Hervey.  C.  p.  S. 

Dorset 

Grafton 

Richmond,  Lennox  and  Aubigny. 

Bolton. 


178  Correspondence  of  the 

RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO   GOVERNOR  WANTON. 

London  6  mo.  the  as'.""  1740 
Gov''.  Wanton 

I  have  reccd  none  of  thy  favours  of  late  —  my  last 
to  thee  was  of  the  1 7'^  Ult.  per  Cap*  Perkins  via  Bos- 
ton to  w'^.''  I  refer. 

This  Serves  now  to  bring  thee  a  Copy  of  the  Royal 
Commission^  for  fixing  the  Boundary  line  between 
our  Colony  and  the  Massach'?  and  hope  it  will  not 
be  long  before  the  Original  Passes  the  Seal  and  is 
compleated,  when  it  is  I  shall  forward  it  to  thee 

In  my  last  I  sent  thee  my  acco!  w*.**  the  Colony, 
the  Ball,  thereon  in  their  favour  was  ^48.12.4  — 
but  then  no  part  of  the  charge  of  this  Commission 
was  set  down :  and  I  have  lately  paid  my  Solicitor 
part  of  the  money  towards  it  since  sending  away  my 
acco*.  And  it  is  very  likely  next  Sessions  of  Par- 
liam*  the  Affair  of  the  State  of  the  Paper  Currency 
in  the  Plantations  will  come  under  consideration 
there  will  be  necessity  of  money  to  be  expended  in 
my  appearing  in  behalf  of  the  Colony  to  vindicate 
their  Priviledges  I  must  intreat  their  Supplying  me 
accordingly  and  I  shall  do  the  best  I  can,  desiring 
also  in  the  mean  time  thou  wouldst  furnish  me  with 
Instructions  thereabout:  I  herewith  send  thee  a  Copy 
of  an  Instruction  prepared  to  send  over  to  the  Kings 
Governors  in  generall  for  their  Information. 

I  w^  observe  that  after  this  dra!  of  the  Commis- 
sion for  Settling  the  Line,  it  was  considered  by  the 

1  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  IV.  586,  587,  for  Instructions  to  the  Commissioners,  and 
the  Royal  Commission. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        1 79 

L*^.'  Committee  of  Council  to  prevent  doubts  and 
ambiguitys  arising  from  the  uncertain  date  of  the 
first  Tuesday  of  March  i7|^:  they  have  varied  it, 
And  made  the  first  Meeting  to  be  on  the  first  Tues- 
day in  April  1741. 

here  are  also  sent  thee  several  Copys  I  obtained 
from  the  Council  Office  relating  to  Charter  Govern- 
ments, the  Original  of  L'^.^  Justices  Order  in  Council* 
goes  by  Cap*  Hall,  w''.''  was  sent  only  (as  I  apprehend) 
in  pursuance  of  the  Vote  of  the  House  of  Com- 
mons—  there  is  among  these  a  Copy  of  the  L^.^  Jus- 
tices Approbation  of  the  L^.^  Committees  Report 
about  the  Affair  of  Mason  ^  &c.  of  Connecticut  w*:"" 
I  thought  woud  not  be  amiss  to  send  thee  that  thou 
might  see  how  that  Affair  stood  here  —  and  I  sup- 
pose in  consequence  of  this  a  New  Commiss"  will 
Issue 

LOND?  7ber  the  3?  1740 

To  Deputy  Goif.  Ward 

Since  my  writing  the  foregoing  I  understand  that 
Governor  Wanton  is  deceased  altho'  I  have  no  letter 
of  it  yet  come  to  my  hand,  and  it  being  about  the 
Colonys  Affairs  I  judgd  it  my  duty  now  to  address 
to  thee,  who  am 

Thy  assured  Friend 

RichP  Partridge 

To  Richard  Ward  Esq 

Governour   of    Rhode    Island   and   Providence 
Plantations 

1  This  document  is  in  the  manuscript  volume  of  Orders  of  the  King  in  Council,  at 
the  State  House. 

2  See  note  on  p.  125. 


i8o  Correspondence  of  the 

COLONEL  BLAKENEY  TO  GOVERNOR  WARD. 

New  York  25  Aug*  1740 
Sir 

I  am  favoured  with  yours  of  the  15'!*  Inst:  acknow- 
ledging the  receipt  of  mine  of  the  2I^'  and  22*?  of 
July  with  the  Bill  for  ^667.3  Sterling;  likewise 
mentioning  that  your  Transports  would  be  at  New 
York  in  a  fortnight.  I  am  humbly  of  opinion  that 
you  ought  to  wait  the  Motion  of  the  Troops  from 
New  England  that  we  may  all  proceed  together.  I 
am  Sir 

Your  most  humble  Servant 

Will:  Blakeney 

To  the  Hon''!'^  Rich^  Ward  Esq-- 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    GOVERNOR    WARD. 

London  7ber :  the  1 7'." :  1 740 
Governour  Ward 

I  have  been  informed  that  it  hath  pleased  Divine 
Providence  lately  to  remove  out  of  this  life  our  Wor- 
thy Friend  Governour  Wanton,  the  loss  of  whom  will 
doubtless  Sensibly  affect  the  people  of  the  Colony 
in  a  general  Manner,  alltho'  I  had  not  much  Per- 
sonal Acquaintance  with  him,  I  took  him  to  be  a 
Gentleman  liberally  endued  with  Wisdom  and  Ca- 
pacity to  Sustain  that  honourable  post  with  Repu- 
[tajtion  both  to  himself  and  the  Government. 

And  now  as  the  choise  of  his  Successor  in  the 
Governm^  has  fallen  on  thee   I  hold  it  my  duty  to 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        i8i 

advise  thee  from  time  to  time  of  such  Occurances 
here  which  may  any  ways  affect  the  Colony  as  to  the 
Priviledges  and  Rights  they  enjoy  by  their  Charter, 
and  I  trust  my  utmost  Endeavours  shall  not  be 
wanting  to  prevent  if  possible  any  attempts  to  their 
Prejudice,  which  has  been  my  care  hitherto,  during 
the  time  of  my  being  the  Colonys  Agent,  as  I  hope  I 
have  many  Witnesses  there  who  wo"!  do  me  the  jus- 
tice to  acknowledge. 

We  have  at  length  got  out  the  Royal  Commission 
under  the  Great  Seal  ^  appointing  Commiss"".^  to  Set- 
tle the  Boundary  line  between  the  Colony  and  the 
Province  of  the  Massach?  which  I  now  send  thee  in 
a  Box  by  our  Friend  Cap*  Wanton,  a  passenger  with 
Cap!  Hall  to  Boston,  which  I  wish  safe  to  thy  hands. 
The  acco!  of  the  charge  of  it  I  shall  send  hereafter 
—  it  has  been  a  pretty  while  in  getting  it  through 
and  compleated,  but  I  do  assure  thee  there  was  no 
time  that  I  know  off  lost  in  doing  it  since  I  reced 
the  Colonys  Order  for  taking  it  out :  there  being  the 
usual  form  of  passing  through  several  Offices  w*!^  with 
Orders  and  References  unavoidably  attending  the 
Solicitation  that  we  could  no  ways  help  it.  there 
comes  also  in  the  Box  with  the  Commission  15  Copys 
thereof.  One  to  be  delivered  to  each  of  the  Commis- 
sioners, which  thou  willt  please  to  take  the  necessary 
care  about. 

Its  thought  the  King  will  return  from  Hannover 
pretty  soon  and  that  the  Parliament  will  sit  some  time 
in  Nov'  next,  against  which  time  I  hope  I  shall  have 

1  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  I.,  IV.  587. 


1 82  Correspondence  of  the 

some  Instructions  relating  to  the  Affair  of  Paper 
Money  &c. 

As  to  Publick  News  the  Spanish  Fleet  of  abo*  1 7 
Men  of  War  have  got  out  of  Ferrol  harbour  abo* 
2  months  since  and  gone  as  its  judgd  for  the  West 
Indies  and  the  French  Brest  Squadron  gone  to  joyn 
them  of  abol  14  Ships  or  upwards,  so  that  they  have 
got  the  Start  of  our  Fleet,  who  still  lyes  wind  bound 
at  S^  Helens. 

Lord  Cathcart  when  he  Sails  will  now  have  near 
30  Men  of  War  with  him  bound  (as  they  say)  to 
Jamaica.  The  Touloun  Squadron  of  14  Sail  are  not 
gone  out  of  the  Straits  yet,  but  will  probably  stay 
there  to  assist  the  Spaniards. 

The  Apparent  behaviour  of  the  French  in  joyn- 
ing  the  Span"^.^  with  their  Ships  of  War,  and  their 
preparation  of  late  for  fortifying  Dunkirk  again,  is 
an  Infraction  of  the  Treaty  of  Utrecht,  and  seems  to 
portend  a  War  with  them,  but  it  is  not  yet  proclaimd, 
nor  any  hostilitys  committed,  with  due  respects  to 
thy  self  and  the  Gentlemen  of  the  Council  and  House 
of  Representatives  I  remain 

Thy  ffaithfull  Friend 

RichP  Partridge 

The  other  News  papers  I  send  in  a  packet  for 
thee  by  it  self 

To  Richard  Ward  Esq' 

Governour  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and 
Providence  Plantations. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       183 

GOVERNOR   WARD   TO   THE  DUKE  OF  NEWCASTLE. 

[Autumn  of  1 740.] 

May  it  please  Your  Grace, 

His  Majesty's  Instructions  respecting  the  raising 
of  Levies  to  go  on  an  Expedition  against  the  Span- 
iards with  Your  Grace's  Recommendation  came  Safe 
to  Our  Hands,  upon  which  this  Colony  determined 
to  shew  their  Zeal  for  the  Service  and  as  a  further 
Encouragement  to  what  his  Majesty  was  pleased  to 
give  was  the  first  of  the  Plantations  that  offered  a 
Premium  to  Soldiers  to  inlist ;  by  which  means  we 
raised  two  very  good  Companies  and  kept  them  bil- 
leted out  at  the  Governments  Charge  from  the  Month 
of  May  to  the  13  of  September  last^  at  which  Time 
they  sail'd  from  hence  in  two  suitable  Vessels  which 
we  hired  to  transport  them  to  the  Place  of  Gen! 
Rendezvous,  having  first  furnish'd  them  with  Provi- 
sions and  all  other  Necessaries  for  the  Design,  the 
names  of  the  officers  over  these  Companies  we  now 
take  Liberty  to  present  to  Your  Grace 

Permit  Us,  ST,  to  assure  you  that  as  we  esteem  it  a 
Singular  Happiness  to  be  under  your  Inspection  So 
none  shall  more  cheerfully  receive  nor  more  readily 
execute  whatever  Your  Grace  Shall  be  pleased  to 
recommend  than  this  Colony  hoping  that  our  Con- 
duct in  this  and  all  Other  Respects  will  be  accept- 
able to  Our  Sovereign  and  your  Graces  Approbation 
which  we  shall  esteem  as  the  greatest  Honour  that 
can  be  done  to,  May  it  please  Your  Grace, 

Your  Grace's  most  Obedf  and  most  humble  Serv* 

Endorsed :  To  His  Grace  the  Duke  of  Newcastle. 

1  September,  1740.    See  Arnold,  History  of  Rhode  Island,  II.  126. 


184  Correspondence  of  the 


ANDREW  STONE  TO  THE  GOVERNOR  AND   COMPANY   OF  RHODE 

ISLAND. 

Whitehall  2?  October  1740. 
Gentlemen^ 

Their  Ex*?^  the  Lords  Justices  to  whom  His  Ma- 
jesty has  entrusted  the  Administration  of  the  Gov- 
ernment, during  His  Absence,  having  been  informed, 
that  great  Quantitys  of  Provisions  have  been  ex- 
ported from  several  of  His  Majesty's  Colonys  in 
North  America  for  the  Use  of  foreign  Colonys,  which 
Practise  may,  in  the  present  Conjuncture,  be  highly 
prejudicial  to  His  Majesty's  Service ;  Their  Ex"?^ 
have  commanded  me  to  signify  to  You  their  Direc- 
tions, that  you  should  prevent,  as  far  as  possible,  the 
Exportation  of  any  Provisions  from  the  Colony  under 
your  Government  to  any  foreign  Colony  whatever; 
And  in  order  thereto,  that  you  should  cause  all  Ships 
laden  with  Provisions,  and  not  in  His  Majesty's  Ser- 
vice, that  shall  sail  from  any  of  the  Ports  within  your 
Government,  to  give  sufficient  Security  to  land  the 
said  Provisions  in  some  part  of  His  Majesty's  Do- 
minions. 

I  am  Gentlemen, 

Your  most  obedient  humble  Servant 

Andrew  Stone. 


Gov!  and  Company  of  Rhode  Island 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        185 

ADMIRAL    VERNON    TO    GOVERNOR    WARD. 

Port  Royal  Jamaica  13'."  November  1740 
Sir 

An  Opportunity  offering  by  one  of  our  Contrac- 
tors M'  Tickell's  Vessels  bound  to  New  York,  I  could 
not  slip  the  same  of  informing  You,  of  the  Arrival  in 
these  Seas  not  only  of  the  large  Squadron  of  twelve 
Spanish  Men  of  War  from  80  to  60  Guns,  but  like- 
wise of  two  as  large  Squadrons  of  French  Ships  from 
Brest  and  Toulon.  I  have  Advice  of  as  large  Rein- 
forcements being  under  Orders  for  coming  to  join 
me.  So  that,  in  all  human  Probability  the  Fate  of 
this  War  is  drawing  to  a  Crisis,  and  Decision  in  these 
Seas.  And  as  any  Misfortune  befalling  us  might  be 
fatal  to  our  Possessions  in  these  Seas ;  and  as  I  think 
these  Squadrons  will  rely  on  being  supply'd  with  Pro- 
visions from  Your  Parts,  either  immedeately  from  the 
French  Ports,  before  we  may  come  to  a  Rupture  with 
them,  or  from  Statia  and  Curascoa  afterwards,  I  can't 
omit  recommending  it  to  You,  as  most  material  for 
His  Maj'  Service,  to  have  no  One  permitted,  at  this 
Critical  Juncture,  to  clear  out  from  Your  Govern- 
ment, without  sufficient  Security  given,  not  to  land 
his  Provisions  at  any  French  or  Dutch  Settlement, 
or  any  other  but  His  Maj'  Collonies,  where  all  they 
can  raise  will  probably  be  wanted  for  the  Subsistance 
of  His  Maj^  Troops. 

As  the  Publick  Service  sufficiently  bespeaks  Your 
Regard  in  this  particular,  I  can  in  no  sort  doubt  of 


1 86  Correspondence  of  the 

Your  exerting  Your  utmost  Zeal  in  it,  for  His  Maj? 
Service. 
I  am  Sir 

Your  most  obedient  humble  Servant 

E.  Vernon 

The  Hono^!^  Richard  Ward  Esq' 


GOVERNOR   WARD   TO    RICHARD    PARTRIDGE. 

Your  favour  of  the  I7*^  September  last  by  Cap| 
Hall  with  yours  of  the  19'!"  with  the  News  Letters 
accompanying  it,  are  come  safe  to  Hand  but  the 
Commission  with  the  Copys,  being  in  Cap^  Wantons 
Chest ;  are  not  come  to  Hand ;  his  dyin  on  Ship 
board  with  the  small  Pox  has  caused  a  Stoppage  of 
every  Thing  aboard  the  Ship  for  the  Present.  If 
any  thing  further  be  laid  before  the  Parliament  this 
Sessions  about  our  paper  Currency  You  will  acquaint 
this  Government  immediately  of  it,  and  endeavour  to 
get  Leave  that  the  Government  may  be  heard  on  it. 
In  the  present  Circumstances  of  the  New  England 
Colonys  It  is  impossible  this  Government  separate 
from  the  rest  can  come  up  to  the  Act  of  the  6'^  of 
Queen  Ann  ^  ascertaining  the  Rates  of  foreign  Coins, 
our  European  trade  is  almost  wholly  thro  the  Hands 
of  the  Boston  Merch^  and  unless  that  Government 
will  emit  their  Bills  at  that  Value  it  will  [be]  im- 
practicable for  this  Colony  to  do  it.  Connecticut 
has  emitted  a  Bank  of  ^30000  in  paper  at  8s.  per 

1  See  letter  of  August  22, 1740. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        187 

oz  which  is  as  good  as  ever  Silver  passed  amongst 
us  upwards  of  thirty  Years  past.  A  Committee^ 
appointed  by  this  Colony  are  preparing  a  Repre- 
sentation of  our  several  Emissions  of  paper  Cur- 
rency and  a  Draught  of  the  Laws  now  in  force ; 
pursuant  to  his  Majestys  Order  which  will  be  com- 
pleated  in  a  few  Months  Time ;  acquaint  the  Lords 
Commissioners  with  it.  The  Government  has  Hon'? 
me  with  the  Part  of  Govr  for  this  Year,  as  for  your 
Ace'?  how  they  stand  I  know  not  I  shall  during  my 
Administration  take  such  Care  of  the  publick  affairs 
that  nothing  shall  be  wanting  on  the  Governments 
Part  to  enable  You  to  carry  them  on  with  Satisfac- 
tion Your  favour  of  the  Duplicate  with  your  News- 
Paper  come  to  Hand  as  I  was  concluding  this  Letter 
I  acknowledge  your  favour  and  remain  S" 

Your  humble  Serv' 

Rich?  Ward 

Newport  Nov'  20'.''  1740 

To  Mr  RicH°  Partridge  Merch*  in  London 


THE  DUKE  OF  NEWCASTLE  TO  THE  GOVERNOR  AND  COMPANY 
OF  RHODE   ISLAND. 

Whitehall  Dec!  4'.''  1740 
Gentlemen, 

His  Majesty  having  received  an  Account  of  what 
has  been  done  in  the  several  Provinces  of  North 
America,  with  regard  to  the  raising  a  Body  of  Men 

1  A  letter  from  the  Board  of  Trade  of  August  19, 1740,  on  the  subject,  may  be  found 
in  the  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  7,  and  the  committee  above  referred  to  was  appointed  by 
the  Assembly  in  October,  1740.   Col.  Rec.  of  R.  I.,  IV.  5S4, 


1 88  Correspondence  of  the 

to  Serve  under  the  Command  of  the  Lord  Cath- 
cart,  and  transporting  them  to  Jamaica,  by  which 
it  appears,  that  there  is  such  a  Spirit  among  His 
Majesty's  Subjects  in  those  Provinces,  that  even  a 
greater  Number  of  Men  might  have  been  raised  for 
this  Service  than  has  yet  been  done ;  And  as  it  is 
probable,  that  Recruits  will  be  wanted  for  the  Forces 
under  Lord  Cathcart's  Command,  or  even  that  Lord 
Cathcart  may  write  to  have  a  greater  Number  of 
Troops  from  North  America,  than  are  at  present 
sent  to  him  ;  His  Majesty  has  commanded  me  to 
acquaint  You,  that  if  My  Lord  Cathcart  should 
think  proper  to  send  to  You  for  any  Number  of  Men 
for  Recruits,  or  for  any  other  Service,  you  should 
endeavour  to  raise  them  accordingly,  and  take  Care, 
that  they  be  transported  to  such  Place,  and  at  such 
Time  as  Lord  Cathcart  shall  appoint ;  And  that  all 
such  Persons  as  shall  enlist,  in  His  Majesty's  Service, 
on  any  such  Occasion,  should  have  the  same  allow- 
ance of  Pay  and  Subsistance,  Cloaths  and  Arms,  as 
was  given  to  the  Men,  that  were  first  raised ;  And  it 
is  His  Majesty's  Pleasure,  that  you  should  transmit 
an  exact  Account  of  the  Number  of  effective  Men, 
that  have  been  already  raised  within  your  Govern- 
ment, as  also  of  Those,  that  shall  be  farther  raised 
in  consequence  of  any  Application  to  You  for  that 
purpose  by  My  Lord  Cathcart,  as  is  abovementioned. 
I  am.  Gentlemen, 

Your  most  obedient  humble  Servant 

HoLLES  Newcastle 

Gov^  and  Company  of  Rhode  Island. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       1 89 


GOVERNOR   WARD    TO    RICHARD    PARTRIDGE. 

Yours  of  the  21^.*  of  November  last  came  to  hand 
the  16"^  Current  with  your  sollicitors  Bill,  and  your 
Ace!  stated  with  the  Colony.  Ballance  in  your  favour 
^159.114  which  I  shall  lay  before  the  Assembly  at 
their  next  sessions,  and  doubt  not  of  their  remitting 
you  the  Ballance  of  your  Ace'  and  a  further  supply 
to  enable  you  to  prosecute  the  Affairs  of  the  Gov- 
ernment with  Vigor.^ 

You'l  herewith  receive  inclosed  a  representation 
of  our  several  Emissions  of  paper  Currency  to  be 
laid  before  the  board  of  Trade  for  the  plantations 
which  You  are  to  lay  before  them  as  soon  as  They 
come  to  hand.^  A  Copy  whereof  You'l  herewith  re- 
ceive open,  which  will  throly  furnish  You  with  the 
reasons  that  induced  the  Colony  to  make  those  Emis- 
sions ;  and  enable  you  to  reply  to  all  that  shall  be 
said  against  Them 

Your  publick  prints  came  safe  to  hand  for  which 
I  thank  You    I  am  Sf 

Your  hearty  friend 

Newport  Feb  :  aG'?  1 745. 

To  Mr  Rich?  Partridge  Merch* 
in  London 


1  No  notice  of  any  such  remittance  appears  in  the  Assembly  records  for  1741. 

2  For  Governor  Waid's  Report  upon  the  paper  money  of  Rhode  Island,  see  Col. 
Rec.  ofR.  /.,  V.  S. 


iQO  Correspondence  of  the 


THE  LORDS  OF  TRADE  TO  THE  GOVERNOR  AND  COMPANY 
OF  RHODE  ISLAND. 

Whitehall,  April  i;*?  1741. 
Gentleme7t^ 

Two  Acts  having  been  pass'd  this  Sessions  of 
Parliament,  wherein  the  British  Plantations  are  con- 
cerned, Viz. 

An  Act  to  prohibit  for  a  time  therein  limited  the 
Exportation  of  Corn,  Grain  (Rice  excepted)  Meal, 
Malt,  Flour,  Bread,  Biscuit  Starch,  Beef,  Pork  and 
Bacon. 

An  Act  for  licensing  the  Importation  of  Victual 
from  Ireland,  and  other  Parts  beyond  the  Seas  into 
Scotland,  in  Time  of  Dearth  and  Scarcity. 

We  have  thought  fit  to  send  you  printed  Copies 
of  them  for  your  Information  and  Government  in  the 
several  Matters  therein  contained.  So  we  bid  you 
heartily  farewell,  and  are 

Your  very  loving  Friends  and  humble  Servants, 

Ja.  Brudenell 
Edw.  Ashe 
M.  Bladen 
R.  Plumer 
A  Croft 

Hon''!*  Gov^  and  Company  of  Rhode  Island. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       191 

E.    WARNER,    R.    GIBBS,    AND  J.    BOWEN   TO    GOVERNOR    WARD. 
May  15'."  AD  1 741 

May  it  please  Your  Honour  after  Due  Regards 
presented,  These  lines  may  Inform  Your  Honour 
That  Pursuant  to  The  Act  of  Assembly^  we  have 
waited  uponM""  Richard  Thornton  in  order  to  Receive 
the  Books  Papers  and  Seal,  that  were  in  his  Cus- 
tody as  late  Clerk  of  the  Inferior  Court  of  Common 
Pleas  and  General  Sessions  of  the  Peace  in  order  to 
Deliver  the  Same  to  Stephen  Hopkins  Esq  the  Pre- 
sent Clerk  of  the  S*^  Courts,  but  the  S^  Thornton 
absolutely  Refused  to  Deliver  Either  Books  Papers 
or  Seal  unless  we  or  some  other  Person  or  Persons 
would  pay  or  Engage  to  pay  to  him  the  sum  of  fifty 
pounds,  we  therefore  Entreat  your  Honour  to  Con- 
sider the  bad  Consequence  of  this  Extraordinary 
proceeding  of  M'  Thornton  and  to  Take  proper 
Method  to  Redress  this  great  Injury  be  Speedily 
Recovering  the  S*^  Books  Papers  and  Seal  out  of  his 
hands  in  order  to  Deliver  the  Same  to  the  present 
Clerk,  This  is  what  offers  wdth  great  Respect  from 
your  Honours  very 

humble  Serv'f 

EzEKiEL  Warner 
Robert  Gibbs 
Jabez  Bowen 


1  Two  committees  were  appointed  in  May,  1741.  One  was  to  ascertain  if  the  secu- 
rity given  by  Thornton  for  the  funds  of  the  colony  in  his  hands  was  sufficient.  The 
other  was  to  receive  from  him  the  county  records,  seal,  and  papers,  as  stated  above. 
The  votes  of  Assembly  are  upon  the  manuscript  records,  but  are  among  the  many 
omissions  in  Mr.  Bartlett's  edition. 


192  Correspondence  of  the 


DANIEL  JENCKS,    STEPHEN    HOPKINS,    AND   OTHERS    TO 
GOVERNOR   WARD. 

Providence  May  16'."  1741 
Hono^.  Sir 

This  waits  on  you  with  a  Relation  of  the  pro- 
ceedings of  Mr  Richard  Thornton  late  Clerk  of  this 
County  Your  Hon!  will  be  informed  by  the  Com- 
mittees Letter  that  pursuant  to  the  Order  of  the 
Assembly  they  waited  on  Mf  Thornton  in  order 
to  Receive  the  Seal  Books  Papers  &c?  in  his  hands 
and  deliver  them  to  the  present  Clerk.  And  of  his 
Refusal/  And  we  being  informed  thereof  by  the 
said  Comm'"  met  Together  to  Endeavour  to  Recover 
our  Records  out  of  his  Hands  but  after  all  the  per- 
suasions we  were  able  to  use,  to  our  surprise  were 
answered  that  he  would  not  deliver  them  and  that  he 
would  not  be  flattered  nor  Threatened  into  a  Com- 
pliance, whereupon  this  Court  made  an  order  that  he 
should  immediately  deliver  up  to  the  s*?  Records  &c? 
to  the  s'?  Comm''^  and  if  he  Refused  they  would  send 
a  Officer  to  take  them,  which  order  was  served  upon 
him  but  he  still  continued  obstinate  in  his  Refusal, 
upon  which  this  Court  granted  forth  a  Warrant  to 
the  Sheriff  to  go  to  the  s^  Thorntons  and  take  the 
Records  &c  and  deliver  them  to  the  s^  Com'"  by 
virtue  of  w^hich  the  Sheriff  went  to  the  s^  Thorntons 
House  Attended  by  the  Com'^^  for  that  purpose 
and  Demanded  the  s"^  Records  of  the  s^  Thorntons 
Wife  but  she  refused  to  deliver  them  the  sheriff 
informed  that  he  must  search  for  them  and  desired 

1  See  the  preceding  letter. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        193 

her  to  Open  the  doors  which  she  did  and  he  searched 
the  Rooms  where  the  Records  Used  to  be  Kept  but 
could  not  find  any  of  the  Books  of  Records  or  the 
County  Seal  but  only  some  files  and  loose  papers 
which  not  being  the  Things  that  were  principally 
wanted,  the  sheriff  left  them  as  he  found  them,  and 
thuse  finding  ourselves  disappointed  in  all  our  En- 
deavours to  Recover  our  Records  which  at  this  Time 
there  is  absolute  necessity  should  be  in  the  Clerks 
Hands :  or  private  persons  as  well  as  the  Goverm! 
will  be  put  to  the  utmost  dificulty,  and  Loss.  And  we 
Know  of  no  way  left  but  to  apply  our  selves  to  Your 
Honour  for  Remedy  in  this  Very  Extraordinary  Case, 
hopeing  that  the  most  Effectual  Methods  may  be 
taken  to  prevent  so  Irreparable  a  Loss  as  that  of  all 
our  County  Records  which  we  take  the  freedom  to 
say  we  are  in  fear  may  soon  be  if  the[y]  are  not 
already  Destroyed.  We  beg  to  be  excused  for  give- 
ing  your  Honour  this  Trouble  and  Remain  with  due 
Respects 

Your  Honors  Most  Humble  Servants 

Daniel  Jenckes 
John  Rice  :  Jn^ 
Robert  Gibbs 
William  Holden 
P  S.    Sir  by  order  of  the  Judges  after  the  above 
Letter  was  wrote  I  Waited  on  M'  Thornton  and  read 
the  same  to  him  and  Desired  him  to  Comply  and 
prevent   farther   Trouble   but    Her'^   the  same  flatt 
denial  as  had  been  given  to  the  Com*^^  and  Judges 


194  Correspondence  of  the 

before  so  that  he  seems  to  be  Resolved  not  to  de- 
liver the  Records  on  any  Terms  at  all 

Stephen  Hopkins 

To  the  Honble  Richard  Ward  Esqy 
Gov'  of  The  Colony  of  Rhode  Island 


GOVERNOR  WARD  TO  THE  SHERIFF  OF  PROVIDENCE  COUNTY.^ 

Colony  of  Rhode  Isf^ 

George  the  Second  by  the  Grace  of  God  of  Great 
Britain,  France  and  Ireland  King  Defender  of  the 
Faith  &c 

To  the  Sheriff  of  Our  County  of  Newport  Greet- 
ing especially  appointed  for  the  Service  of  this  Pre- 
cept.^ 

Whereas,  Complaint  hath  been  made  unto  Us  the 
Subscribers  by  Ezekiel  Warner,  Robert  Gibbs  and 
Jabez  Bowen  all  of  Providence  in  the  County  of 
Providence  Esq"  That  Richard  Thornton  of  s^  Provi- 
dence Esq'  the  late  Clerk  of  the  Court  of  Common 
Pleas  and  General  Sessions  of  the  Peace  establish'd 
in  the  s^  County  of  Providence  hath  refused  to  de- 
liver the  Records,  Papers  and  Seal  of  s^  Courts  to 
the  Complainants  (who  are  a  Committee  appointed 
by  the  Gen!  Assembly  to  receive  the  same  and  them 
to  deliver  to  Stephen  Hopkins  Esqr  the  present 
Clerk  of  s*^  Courts)  and  that  the  sf  Richard  Thornton 

1  See  letters  of  May  15  and  i5,  1741. 

2  A  precept  is,  in  English  law,  a  mandate  in  writing,  issued,  pursuant  to  law,  by  an 
administrative  officer. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        195 

at  Providence  afores'?  hath  removed  and  doth  feloni- 
ously conceal  and  secrete  sf  Records ;  Papers  and 
Seal  from  whence  there  is  a  great  Suspicion  that  He 
the  s^  Richard  Thornton  hath  embezled  and  utterly 
destroy'd  the  s'^  Records,  Papers  and  Seal 

These  are  therefore  in  his  said  Maj^  Name  to  com- 
mand You  upon  Sight  hereof  to  make  diligent  Search 
for  the  s^  Richard  Thornton  and  him  if  to  be  found 
within  this  Colony  to  apprehend  and  bring  forthwith 
before  the  Superior  Court  of  Judicature  Court  of 
Assize  and  Gen!  Goal  delivery  now  sitting  at  New- 
port within  and  for  the  Colony  aforesf  that  He  may 
be  examin'd  respecting  the  afores^  Complaint  and  be 
further  dealt  with  as  the  Law  directs.  And  if  the  s^ 
Richard  Thornton  shall  be  found  in  Prison  for  Debt, 
then  the  Sheriff  who  has  the  Care  of  him  as  a  Pris- 
oner is  hereby  ordered  on  Sight  of  this  Precept  to 
deliver  him  the  s^  Richard  Thornton  in  order  that 
He  may  be  convey 'd  to  the  Superior  Court  to  be 
examined  and  dealt  with  as  afores*^  And  upon  Your 
receiving  the  s'?  Richard  Thornton  into  your  Custody 
You  are  commanded  to  take  all  imaginable  Care  to 
prevent  his  Escape  from  the  Hands  of  Justice  ;  And 
You  are  further  Required  to  make  diligent  Search 
for  the  said  Records,  Papers  and  Seal  in  any  sus- 
pected Places  within  this  Colony  and  if  need  be  You 
are  hereby  authorised  to  take  especial  Aid  and  As- 
sistance with  You  and  to  break  open  any  Locks  or 
doors  that  may  hinder  your  searching  for  the  same, 
and  if  you  should  find  the  s"?  Records,  Papers  or  Seal 
or  any  of  them,  then  You  are  to  deliver  the  same  to 
the  afores"?  Complainers.     Hereof  fail  not  and  make 


196  Correspondence  of  the 

Return  of  this  Precept  with  your  doings.  Given 
under  our  hands  and  Seals  in  Newport  afores^  May 
2o]^  1 74 1 

Rich?  Ward  Gov' 
W¥  Greene  D  Govf 
P.  BouRS  Assists 

Endorsed :   Colony  of  Rhode-Island 
May  22"?  1741 

By  Virtue  of  this  Precept,  I  have  made  diligent 
Search  after  the  within  Mentioned  Richard  Thorn- 
ton, and  found  him  in  Goal  in  the  County  of  Provi- 
dence, on  a  Civil  Action,  there  committed  by  the 
Sheriff  of  the  s^  County,  and  was  by  the  s^  Sheriff 
delivered  to  my  Custody. 

Tho!  Potter  Sher. 


THE  HOUSE  OF   MAGISTRATES   TO  THE   HOUSE   OF  DEPUTIES. 

Octr  29""  1 741. 

To  the  House  of  Deputies. 

Gent" 

Finding  by  the  Return  from  the  Town  of  Provi- 
dence that  M'  Richard  Thornton^  is  chosen  One 
of  the  Deputys  for  that  Town  to  represent  them  in 
this  General  Assembly,  do  not  think  proper  to  give 
him  his  Engagement  to  that  office  until  we  have  the 

1  See  letters  of  May  15  and  16,  and  sheriff's  precept  of  May  20.  In  June,  the  Assem- 
bly voted  that  since  Thornton  had  in  his  possession  €2800,  old  tenor,  belonging  to 
the  colony,  a  committee  be  appointed  to  demand  security  therefor.  In  August,  the 
colony  brought  action  against  Thornton  for  the  costs  of  the  search  for  the  court 
records  described  in  the  letters  cited  above.  Bartlett's  edition  of  the  Records  omits 
the  entire  August  session. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        197 

Opinion  of  Your  House  for  the  following  Reasons, 
vizt.  For  secreting  and  refusing  to  deliver  the  Records 
of  the  Inferior  Court  of  Common  Pleas  and  General 
Sessions  of  the  Peace  held  in  the  County  of  Provi- 
dence to  a  Committee  appointed  by  the  General  As- 
sembly to  receive  the  Same ;  for  not  discharging  his 
Trust  as  a  Committee  Man  for  that  Town  in  the 
Year  1738-  and  not  yet  delivering  to  the  Grand  Com- 
mittee the  Tenth  Bonds  for  upwards  of  two  thousand 
pounds. 

Pass'd  per  ordr 

Ja  Martin  Secretary. 

To  the  House  of  Mag^f 
Gen^. 

This  House  are  of  Opinion  that  Mr  RicM  Thorn- 
ton is  qualifyed  for  a  Member  of  this  House  and  pray 
he  may  be  Engaged. 
Voted  and  past 

per  Order 

J  Lyndon  Clerk 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    GOVERNOR   WARD, 

London  3?  mo.  or  May  the  is'?  1741 
Governor  Ward 

Thine  of  the  23  feb?"  last  I  have  received  per  Cap* 
Orrocks  together  with  a  packet  for  the  Lords  of 
Trade  containing  a  Representation  of  the  State  of 
the  Colony  with  respect  to  yo^  paper  currency^  which 
I  deliverd  the  day  after  it  came  to  my  hands  and 

1  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  I.,  V.  8. 


198  Correspondence  of  the 

hope  it  may  be  Satisfactory,  but  at  Present  that  Board 
is  adjournd  for  Some  time  Since  the  dissolution  of 
the  Parliam!  and  as  I  suppose  most  of  them  gone 
down  into  the  Country  about  their  Elections;  nothing 
at  all  was  done  as  I  have  already  advised  thee  at  the 
last  Sessions  of  Parliam!  with  regard  to  Publick  Bills 
of  Credit,  but  an  Act  has  been  pass'd  for  Suppress- 
ing Banks  Erected  for  Issuing  Bills  or  Notes  by 
any  Companys,  agreeable  to  the  Bill  herewith  sent 
thee,  the  printed  part  was  as  it  stood  when  first  it 
was  bro*  into  the  House  and  the  written  part  of  it 
are  the  amendm**  which  together  now  is  past  into  a 
Law. 

herewith  I  also  Send  my  acco!  with  the  Colony  the 
Ballance  whereof  in  my  favour  is  ^213  :  15  :  o  Str 
which  I  hope  will  be  remitted  me  in  due  time,  with  a 
further  Supply  to  enable  me  to  prosecute  the  Affairs 
of  the  Governm*  and  w'^''  will  be  very  acceptable  to 
me.  the  War  expected  with  France  keeps  off  hitherto, 
and  no  great  likelyhood  of  it  at  present.  We  are  dayly 
in  Expectation  now  of  News  from  our  Fleet  in  the 
West  Indies 

The  King  is  gone  to  Hannover  and  arrivd  Safe  in 
Holl'^  about  a  week  Since  for  the  rest  I  refer  to 
the  News  papers  herewith  sent  and  remain  with  due 
respects 

Thy  assured  Friend 

Rich?  Partridge 

To  Governour  Ward. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        199 

GOVERNOR   WARD    TO    THE    DUKE    OF   NEWCASTLE. 

Newport  June  the  24'."  1741 
May  it  please  your  Grace 

His  Majesty's  orders  for  Levying  a  Number  of 
Men  on  an  expedition  against  the  Spaniards  came 
safe  to  hand  the  latter  End  of  April  and  was  laid 
before  the  Assembly  the  first  Wednesday  of  May^ 
who  readily  and  chearfully  complied  therewith  and 
shewed  their  Zeal  for  his  Majestys  Service  in  their 
giving  a  Bounty  to  each  Person  enlisting  some  con- 
siderable time  before  any  of  the  other  Governments, 
which  forwarded  Us  so  much  more  than  our  Neigh- 
bours that  Wee  soon  filled  up  two  Companys  of  one 
hundred  Men  each  pursuant  to  his  Majestys  direc- 
tion (before  the  Massachusets  tho  They  are  ten  times 
as  Numerous  as  Wee)  who  sailed  the  13'!"  of  Sep^  fol- 
lowing for  New.  York  agreeable  to  the  Instructions 
I  rec'?  from  the  honorable  Col?  Gooch  in  two  good 
Topsail  Vessels  hired  and  fitted  out  with  Provisions 
and  all  things  necessary  for  their  Transportation  to 
the  general  Rendezvouz  at  the  Colonys  charge 

The  Company  raised  on  Rhode.  Island  was  com- 
manded by 

Samuel  Dun  Cap* 

Walter  Chaloner  2"^  Lieu* 

Joseph  Cook  Ensign 

The  officers  of  the  Company  raised  on  the  main- 
land are 

William  Hopkins  Cap* 

1  May,  1740,  is  meant.    See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  IV.  571. 


200  Correspondence  of  the 

Thomas  Brenton  2nd  Lieu^ 

W™  Smith  Ensign 

With  great  Submission  Sf  I  assure  you  I  esteem 
it  a  singular  happiness  this  Colony  is  under  your 
inspection ;  and  none  shall  more  chearfuUy  receive 
nor  more  readily  observe  his  Maj^.'  orders  at  all  times 
communicated  by  your  Grace  to  us.  Hoping  that 
our  Conduct  in  this  as  well  as  in  all  others  may 
be  accepted  by  his  Majesty  and  approved  by  your 
Grace  which  this  Government  shall  esteem  the  great- 
est honour  can  be  done  them 

May  it  please  your  Grace  I  am  With  the  most  pro- 
found Respect 

Your  most  obedient  and  most  humble  Servant 

R.  Ward 

Endorsed :  Copy  of  Letter  To  his  Grace  the  Duke 
of  Newcastle  Principle  Secretary  of  State 


GOVERNOR   WARD    TO   RICHARD    PARTRIDGE. 

Newp?  July  15'."  1 741 

Sr 

Yours  of  the  1 5^^'  May  with  your  Ace*  stated  came 
to  hand  with  two  Acts  of  Parliament  for  this  Colony 
by  Cap*  Evers.  I  laid  your  former  bill  of  M'  Paris's 
and  your  Ace!  as  then  stated  before  our  Assembly 
in  May  who  rose  without  doing  any  thing  on  it ;  in 
their  June  sessions^  They  ordered  a  Committee  to 

1  In  the  June  sessions  of  1741,  as  entered  upon  the  original  records  at  the  State 
House,  there  is  provision  made  "  that  the  Sum  of  One  hundred  and  Fifty  Pounds  Ster- 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       201 

remit  You  ^150  Sterling  which  I  suppose  You'l  re- 
ceive ere  this  comes  to  hand.  I  moved  the  lower 
house  to  make  You  a  larger  remittance  but  They 
declined  it  that  time;  by  your  Ace!  stated  15!^  of 
May  there  is  ^213.15.  due  to  ballance  in  your  favour 
our  Assembly  will  set  in  August  I  shall  lay  your 
Ace!  before  Them^  and  doubt  not  but  They  will  remit 
You  the  full  ballance  and  advance  a  considerable 
Sum  to  enable  You  to  carry  on  our  Affairs  I  shall 
press  it  forwards  to  the  utmost  of  my  power,  you 
are  strenuously  to  oppose  any  attempt  that  may  be 
made  ag^.'  our  striking  off  any  more  bills  of  Credit 
without  the  Royal  Assent.  The  Commissioners  for 
setting  the  boundaries  between  the  two  Colonys  have 
made  a  Judgment^  in  our  favour  for  the  Gore;  and 
for  three  miles  N.E.  from  the  Mouth  of  Providence 
river  and  from  Bristol  harbour  till  They  bring  us  over 
the  Neck  to  the  Eastern  branch  and  then  crossed  the 
Bay  and  then  gave  us  a  p?  of  Land  southward  to  the 
Sea  of  three  miles  in  wedth. 
I  am  Sr  With  Respect 

Your  obedient  humble  Servant 

ling  be  remitted  to  our  Agent  in  London  in  the  Kingdom  of  Great  Britain  for  the  Use 
of  the  Colony,"  and  a  committee  was  appointed  "  to  draw  the  Same  out  of  the  General 
Treasury,  and  procure  Gold,  Silver,  or  Bills  of  Exchange,  and  send  the  Same  to  our 
said  Agent  by  the  first  good  Oportunity." 

1  No  record  appears  of  any  further  emission  in  the  August  session. 

2  See  p.  XX  of  the  hitroduction.      Arnold,  History  of  Rhode  Island,  II.  132,  133, 
gives  an  account  of  the  judgment  of  the  commission. 


202  Correspondence  of  the 


GENERAL    WENTWORTH    TO    GOVERNOR    WARD.^ 

From  the  Camp  on  the  River  Humbsr 
IN  THE  Island  Cuba 
Aug!  12^  1741. 
Sir, 

His  Majesty  having  directed  me  to  use  my  best 
Endeavours  to  recruit  his  forces  under  my  Com- 
mand, in  his  Colonies  in  North  America,  I  have 
appointed  Cap^  Hopkins^  to  repair  for  that  end  to 
your  province,  not  doubting  of  your  giving  him  all 
the  assistance  in  your  power,  to  Levy  soldiers  not 
only  for  Compleating  Col?  Gooch's  Regiment,  but 
if  practicable  to  raise  a  greater  Number,  either  to 
fill  up  vacancies  in  the  two  old  corps,  and  in  the 
Marines,  or  to  form  another  Battalion,  as  it  shall  be 
found  best  for  his  Majesties  Service. 

As  I  have  here  no  means  of  supplying  the  recruit- 
ing Officers  with  money,  You  will,  Sir,  be  pleas 'd  to 
give  the  aforesaid  Captain  Credit  for  such  sums,  as 
may  be  wanted  for  that  service,  and  to  draw  upon 
the  Right  Hon^'^  Henry  Pelham  Esq'^  the  Paymaster 
General  for  the  said  usd.  As  to  the  particular  sums 
to  be  paid  to  the  said  Recruiting  Officer,  I  Refer  you 
to  his  Instructions  which  he  will  lay  before  you. 

All  such  as  shall  Inlist  themselves  on  this  occa- 
sion, will  be  Intitled  to  the  Advantages  offered  by 
his  Majesty,  in  his  Instructions  on  the  first  raising 
Col°   [Gooch's]   Regiment.     I  don't  doubt,  Sir,  but 

1  Printed  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  30. 

2  Captain  William  Hopkins,  of  Providence. 

8  A  prominent  politician,  nephew  of  the  Duke  of  Newcastle,  and  a  supporter  of  the 
Walp-ole  administration ;  later,  chancellor  of  the  exchequer  and  prime  minister. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       203 

you  will  take  the  proper  measures  for  their  being 
transported  hither,  to  support  which  Charge  I  flatter 
myself  the  respective  Provinces  will  make  a  provi- 
sion, as  all  his  Majesties  dominions  in  the  West 
Indies  are  particularly  Interested  in  the  Success  of 
this  Expedition. 
I  am,  S?" 

Your  most  obedient  servant 

Tho?  Wentworth 

To  the  Hon''!^  Richard  Ward,  Esq^ 
Governour  of  Rhode-Island 


GENERAL    WENTWORTH  S    ORDERS    TO    CAPTAINS    HOPKINS 
AND    WINSLOW. 

To  Capf'  Hopkins^  and  JVinslow^ 

You  are  required  without  Delay  to  repair  on  board 
the  Sea  Horse  Commanded  by  Cap!  Allen  Who  is 
ordered  by  Vice  Admiral  Vernon  to  conduct  You 
directly  to  North  America. 

gndiy  You  are  as  soon  as  You  land  to  repair  to  such 
Provinces,  as  You  think  the  most  likely  to  afford  You 
Recruits,  Of  which  You  are  to  raise  as  Many  as  You 
shall  be  able  with  all  Expedition. 

ydiy  You  are  only  to  enlist  able  bodied  Men,  not 
exceeding  Thirtyfive  Years  of  Age,  Nor  are  You  to 
enlist  any  Native  of  Ireland,  Except  You  have  un- 
doubted Proof  of  his  being  a  Protestant,  and  of  a 
good  Character. 

1  See  note  to  preceding  letter. 

2  Doubtless  John  Winslow  of  Massachusetts  (General  Winslow  of  the  Seven  Years' 
War),  who  led  a  company  of  his  own  raising  to  Cartagena. 


204  Correspondence  of  the 

^thiy  You  are  to  apply  to  the  Governour  of  the  Pro- 
vince, where  You  propose  to  raise  Men,  for  Money 
to  enable  You  to  begin  Your  Recruiting,  and  may 
afterwards  receive  from  Him,  Four  Pounds  for  each 
Man  You  shall  have  raised.  Out  of  which  is  to  be 
deducted  the  Sum,  You  shall  have  before  received 
on  Account. 

5*^'y  As  an  Encouragement  for  Gentlemen  to  assist 
You  in  raising  Men,  I  shall  reserve  Twelve  Vacan- 
cies of  Ensigns  Commissions  which  shall  be  given 
to  Those,  Who  shall  appear  to  Me,  from  a  Certificate 
signed  by  the  Governour  of  the  Province,  (where  is 
the  Seal  of  Your  recruiting)  And  by  Your  Self,  to 
have  been  the  most  Active  in  assisting  You  in  rais- 
ing Recruits,  each  Captain  employed  in  raising  Men 
to  Certify  for  Six. 

^thiy  'pj^g  Recruits  are  to  be  subsisted  at  the  Ex- 
pence  of  the  Recruiting  Officer,  and  He  is  to  stand 
to  all  Hazard  of  Death  or  Desertion,  till  They  shall  be 
actually  embarked,  of  Which  no  less  than  Fifty  to  be 
embarked  atone  Time ;  After  They  shall  be  embarked, 
They  are  to  be  subsisted  at  the  Publick  Expence,  and 
any  Loss  by  Death  to  fall  upon  the  Regiment. 

As  often  as  shall  be  practicable,  Accounts  are  to 
be  sent  to  the  Oiificer,  commanding  Col"  Gooche's 
Regiment,  to  be  laid  before  the  Commander  in  Chief, 
of  the  Number  of  Men  raised,  and  of  what  Prospect 
there  may  be  of  raising  More. 

Tho?  Wentworth 

From  the  Camp  in  the  Isle  of  Cuba  August  12""  1741. 
Endorsed  :   Copy   Instructions  from   Gen!  Went- 
worth to  Cap!  Hopkins,  1741. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       205 


GOVERNOR   WARD   TO   GENERAL   WENTWORTH. 

Immediately  after  I  had  the  honor  of  yours  of  the 
I2'^  AugV  per  Capt  Hopkins  I  called  the  Assembly 
and  laid  your  Letter  before  Them  Who  most  read- 
ily and  chearfully  concur'd  in  raising  what  forces 
we  possibly  could  and  accordingly  gave  orders  for 
advancing  such  Sums  of  money  as  Cap*  Hopkins's 
occasions  might  require  ^ 

Beside  the  advantages  Graciously  offered  by  his 
Majesty  we  have  given  a  further  bounty  of  five  pounds 
this  Currency  and  a  Watch  Coat  to  every  Soldier 
upon  their  Embarkation  in  the  present  expedition  by 
which  means  we  have  raised  upwards  of  fifty  able- 
bodied  Men  and  We  have  sent  them  in  our  Colony 
Sloop  at  our  own  charge.  I  heartily  wish  their  quick 
and  safe  Arrival,  that  They  may  prove  Acceptable  to 
you  and  that  our  Conduct  in  this  whole  affair  may 
have  your  Approbation 

That   the   Providence   of  God    may  succeed   his 
Majestys  just  Arms  under  your  present  Conduct  in 
every  attempt  against  an  unreasonable  Enemy  is  the 
sincere  desire  of 
S' 
Your  most  obedi'  and  humble  Serv* 

R  :  Ward 


1  See  the  two  preceding  documents,  and  for  proceedings  of  the  Assembly,  Col.  Rec. 
ofR.  /.,  v.  30. 


2o6  Correspondence  of  the 

P.  S  Cap!  Hopkins  and  Lieu!  Chaloner  have  been 
very  diligent  and  industrious  in  raising  recruits  and 
have  given  a  general  Satisfaction 

To  The  Honourable  Thomas  Wentworth  Esq. 
Brigadier  Gen!  and  Commander  in  Chief  of  his 
majestys  Forces  In  The  West  Indies. 


DANIEL   UPDIKE^    TO    THE    GENERAL   ASSEMBLY. 

To  the  Honorable  the  General  Assembly  of  His  Majesty  Colony 
of  Rhode  Island  &c.  held  [at]  Newport  within  and  for  said 
Colony  on  the  first  Tuesday  of  Octobf  a.  d.  1741. 

I  the  Subscriber  hereby  inform  the  Honorable 
Assembly  that  I  attended  His  Majesty  Court  of 
Commissioners  for  Setling  the  Bounds  of  the  Col- 
ony at  their  Sessions  in  Providence  on  the  7^^  Day 
of  April  1 74 1.  And  that  I  again  attended  said  Court 
about  the  Twenty  eighth  Day  of  said  month  and  con- 
tinued to  attend  said  Court  which  Set  with  small  In- 
termissions 'till  June  3o'^  1741  when  final  Judgment 
was  given.  In  the  Prossecution  of  which  Business 
I  postponed  all  other  Concerns  and  gave  up  the 
Advantage  of  Providence  Court  which  Set  in  said 
Time  That  I  might  be  the  better  able  to  Serve  the 
Colony.  And  I  was  at  the  Pains  of  arguing  the 
Cause  in  Behalf  of  the  Colony.  Moreover  when  the 
said  Court  of  Commissioners  Set  in  Septemb.  1741. 

1  Updike  was  attorney-general  for  the  colony  from  1722  to  1732,  and  from  1743  to 
his  death,  in  1757.  He  was  one  of  the  two  attorneys  who  represented  Rhode  Island 
before  the  Boundary  Commission  of  1741. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       207 

I  attended  and  assisted  the  rest  of  the  Committee  in 
entering  an  Appeal  to  His  Majesty  in  Council.  And 
further  before  the  Setting  of  said  Court  I  spent  con- 
siderable Time  with  others  of  the  Committee  in  con- 
sulting and  advising  about  said  Cause,  And  procured 
what  ancient  Papers  I  cou'd  find  that  would  Serve 
the  Cause  of  the  Colony.  For  all  which  Time  and 
Service  and  Expence  and  Skill  I  apprehend  I  reason- 
ably deserve  One  hundred  and  fifty  Pounds.  Which 
nevertheless  is  humbly  submitted  to  the  Judgment  of 
the  Honorable  Assembly 

Daniel  Updike 

Octobf  8*?  1 741 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR   WARD. 

London  8"!'  the  16.  1741 
Gover7iour  Ward 

I  have  before  me  thy  favours  of  the  15  July  and 
22^  August^  last  and  am  heartily  glad  to  understand 
that  the  Commissioners  for  settling  the  Bound- 
arys  have  determined  so  well  in  favour  of  the  Col- 
ony, 

If  that  Affair  after  all  sh'^  come  to  be  disputed 
here  and  the  Comm''  Judgm*  appeald  against  I  shall 
do  my  very  utmost  with  the  assistance  of  my  Soli- 
citor and  Counsel  to  Support  before  the  Lords  of 
the  Privy  Council,  not  doubting  but  I  shall  have 
Sufficient  Instructions  for  that  purpose. 

As  to  the  hint  thou  givest  me  relating  to  a  Com- 

2  It  was  voted  to  allow  Colonel  Daniel  Updike  "the  sum  of  £125  "  for  "his  time 
and  service  in  the  above  mentioned  affair."    Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  33. 


2o8  Correspondence  of  the 

plaint  of  some  of  the  Massachusetts  People  ag*.*  the 
Colony  touching  Paper  Money  I  shall  be  diligent  in 
my  enquiry  about  it  and  use  my  utmost  Endearvours 
therein  for  the  Interest  of  the  Colony,  in  Supporting 
their  Rights  and  Privilidges  as  well  before  the  Kings 
Ministers  as  in  Parliam*  and  shall  oppose  any  attempt 
that  may  be  made  to  our  prejudice,  all  which  to  be 
sure  must  necessarily  be  attended  with  considerable 
Expence,  and  I  don't  doubt  but  the  Same  will  be  con- 
siderd  by  yo^  Assembly  and  that  I  shall  be  suffi- 
ciently furnished  with  what  is  necessary.  I  have  lately 
received  a  Remittance  from  Geo :  Goulding  &c*  of 
One  Hundred  and  Ninety  eight  pounds  17/5  Sterl 
on  acco*  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and  Provid" 
Plantations  w':'*  I  give  their  acco*  Cred!  for,  and  which 
I  gratefully  receive  with  due  acknowledgm",  I  observe 
thy  observations  in  the  affair  of  the  above  Complaint 
w''''  will  be  of  good  use  to  me  in  checking  any  thing 
of  that  Nature  and  shall  regard  thy  hint  as  to  secrecy 
till  I  hear  further  about  it,  and  shall  give  thee  due 
Notice  hereafter,  as  any  proceeding  may  be  had  about 
it.    I  am  with  due  respects 

Thy  assured  Fr^ 

RichP  Partridge 
No  War  w'^  France  yet  nor  any  likelyhood  of  a 
Peace  with  Spain   the  King  is  expected  over  from 
Hannover  in  2  or  3  days. 

To  Richard  Ward  Esq!" 

Governour  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and 
Providence  Plantations 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        209 


GENERAL   WENTWORTH   TO   GOVERNOR  WARD, 

Sir 

His  Majesty  having  directed  me  to  use  my  best 
Endeavours  to  recruit  his  forces  under  my  Command 
in  his  Colonys  in  North  America  I  have  appointed 
Cap  Hopkins^  Lieu*  Chaloner  and  Lieu'  Smith  to 
repair  for  that  purpose  to  your  province  not  doubt- 
ing of  your  giving  them  all  the  assistance  in  your 
power  to  levy  Soldiers  not  only  for  compleating  Coll 
Goochs  Regiment,  but  if  practicable  to  raise  a  greater 
Number  either  to  fill  up  Vacancys  in  the  two  old 
Corps  and  in  the  marines  or  to  form  another  Bat- 
tallion  as  it  shall  be  found  best  for  His  majestys 
Service. 

As  I  have  no  means  of  supplying  the  recruiting 
officers  with  money,  you  will,  Sir,  be  pleased  to  give 
the  aforesaid  Captain,  Credit  for  such  Sums  as  may 
be  wanted  for  that  Service  and  to  draw  upon  the 
Right  Honourable  Henry  Pelham  Esq'  the  Paymas- 
ter General  for  the  said  use.  As  to  the  particular 
Sums  to  be  paid  to  the  said  recruiting  officer  I  re- 
ferr  you  to  his  Instructions  which  he  will  lay  before 
you. 

All  such  as  will  inlist  themselves  on  this  occasion 
will  be  intitled  to  the  Advantages  offered  by  His 
Majesty  in  his  Instructions^  on  the  first  raising  Coll 
Gooch's  Regiment.  I  dont  doubt  Sir,  but  you  will 
take  the  proper  measures  for  their  being  transported 
hither  to  support  which  charge  I  flatter  myself  the 
respective  provinces  will  make  a  provision  as  all  His 

1  See  note  to  letter  of  August  12,  1741.  2  See  letter  of  January  5,  1740. 


2IO  Correspondence  of  the 

majestys  Dominions  in  the  West  Indies  are  particu- 
larly interested  in  the  Success  of  this  Expedition. 

I  beg  leave  to  assure  you,  Sir,  that  such  young 
Gentlemen  as  shall  give  their  assistance  in  raising 
men,  and  shall  be  properly  recommended,  will  be 
provided  for  in  the  Vacancys  which  may  happen  in 
Coll  Gooch's  Regiment.  I  shall  Sir  have  a  more  par- 
ticular regard  to  your  friends  being  I  am  ST, 
Your  most  obedient  humble  Serv* 

Tho?  Wentworth 
Kingston  Jamaica  2*.  £Eebry  174J 

The  Honble  the  Governour  of  Rhode  Island. 


RICHARD   PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR   WARD. 

London  iz'?  mo.  the  4.  1741 
Governor  Ward, 

The  last  I  wrote  thee  was  of  the  8'?"  of  xber,  Since 
which  I  have  reed  none  of  thy  favours,  all  things 
remain  quiet  here  respecting  the  Colony. 

As  to  Publick  affairs  There  has  been  nothing 
brought  into  Parliament  yet  relating  to  the  Planta- 
tions, the  Sessions  began  the  i'.'  of  xber  last  wherein 
pretty  much  of  their  time  has  been  spent  in  setling 
the  Controverted  Elections,  and  some  Endeavours 
used  to  Embarrass  and  distress  the  Ministry;  those 
in  the  Opposition  to  them  were  for  having  the  State 
of  the  War  and  the  Management  of  it  retrospected 
and  examind  into  by  a  Comittee  of  21  Members  to 
be  elected  by  ballotting  which  occasiond  warm  and 
long  debates,  and  upon  a  division  of  the  House  it 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       211 

was  rejected  in  favour  of  the  Court  by  a  Majority 
of  3.  there  being  508.  Members  Present  in  the 
whole,  a  greater  Number  than  ever  I  knew  together 
before. 

Our  Merchants  complain  heavily  of  their  losses  by 
the  Spaniards  which  indeed  has  been  very  great,  for 
that  upw'^.^  of  335.  Ships  and  Vessels  have  been  taken 
since  the  present  War  began,  and  now  they  are  apply- 
ing to  Parlm*  for  redress  for  the  futre  wherein  I  am 
apt  to  think  they  will  succeed,  but  at  present  they  are 
at  a  stop  by  the  Kings  coming  to  the  House  of  Ld? 
yesterday  and  desir?  the  Parliam'  to  adjourn  them- 
selves to  the  18*  Ins*  which  was  done  accordingly  and 
Last  night  Sf  Rob*  Walpole  they  say  resignd  up  all 
his  Places  to  the  King  which  occasiond  a  Consid- 
erable alteration  in  the  Ministry:^  its  said  L"^  Wil- 
mington will  be  first  Commissioner  of  the  Treasury 
and  Doddington  Esq'  ChanP  of  the  Excheql"  in  his 
room,  L^  Carteret  Presid*  of  the  Council,  and  the 
Duke  of  Argyle  reinstated  into  Oiiices  and  favour 
again,  V.^.  Chesterfield  Sec^  of  State  and  U"  Grenard 
first  Comissioner  of  the  Admiralty  in  the  room  of 

Sf  C W ^  but  some  of  these  changes  must 

not  fully  be  relyed  on  for  fact  till  there  is  a  con- 
firmation thereof ;  during  the  Recess  its  very  prob- 
able the  settlement  of  the  Ministry  will  be  fixed 
and  some  new  measures  enterd  into  respecting  the 
Publick.    but  some  yet  doubt  very  much  when  there 

1  For  two  years  the  popular  opposition  to  Walpole  had  been  steadily  increasing,  and 
his  majority  in  the  House  gradually  disappeared  during  the  winter  of  1741-42.  His 
resignation  took  place  February  2,  1742. 

2  Sir  Charles  Wager,  who  retired  from  the  Admiralty  in  March,  1742,  and  was  in 
December  appointed  treasurer  of  the  navy.     He  died  in  the  following  May. 


2 1 2  Correspondence  of  the 

are  alterations  made  in  the  Ministry  about  the  King, 
whether  any  of  those  who  have  been  in  the  oppo- 
sition to  the  late  measures  will  be  put  into  Office. 
Time  will  soon  manifest  it 

I  am  with  due  respects  to  thy  Self  and  the  Gen- 
tlemen of  the  Council  and  House  of  Representa- 
tives 

Thy  assured  Friend 

RiCH^  Partridge 

I  send  thee  herewith  some  News  Papers  to  w*  I 
refer  desiring  thy  acceptance  of  them. 


GOVERNOR    WARD    TO    THE    DUKE    OF    NEWCASTLE. 

Newport  Feb!  lo*  174^ 
May  it  please  your  Grace 

The  hon"^  Brigadier  Wentworth  commander  in 

chiefe  of  his   Majesties  Land   Forces  in  the  West 

Indies  having  tho't  proper  to  make  application   to 

Several  of  the  Provinces  in  the  British  Dominions 

in  North  America  to  raise  Recruits  for  his  Majesties 

army  greatly  diminished  by  Sickness  and  the  Events 

of  Warr;  and  having  sent  especial  directions  to  this 

Colony  of    Rhode    Island  with    proper   officers  for 

raising  such  a  Number  of  men  as  could  be  done  with 

conveniency  (in  Conformity  to  his  Majesties  pleasure 

signified  to  us  by  your  Grace)  ^  I  immediately  upon 

receiving  his  orders  called    the   Assembly  together 

who  voted  and  ordered  the  raising  as  many  men  as 

the  s'^  officers  could  inlist  herein  without  Limitation 

1  See  letter  of  February  2,  1742. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       213 

of  Number.  And  further  in  their  great  Zeal  for  his 
Majesties  Service  and  as  an  encouragem*  for  the 
more  effectual  and  speedy  raising  the  same  Enacted 
that  a  Bounty  of  five  Pounds  this  Currency  and  a 
Watch  coat  (over  and  above  his  Majesties  bounty) 
should  be  given  to  each  effective  that  should  be 
inlisted  in  his  Majesties  service/  In  consequence 
whereof  the  s^  officers  have  enlisted  in  this  small 
Colony  fifty  three  Able  Men,  which  embarked  and 
saild  from  this  place  the  twenty  seventh  Day  of 
December,  in  a  Vessel  built  at  the  expence  of  the 
Colony  on  purpose  for  the  defence  of  our  Coasts 
and  protection  of  our  Trade  and  is  well  equipped 
with  a  sufficient  number  of  men,  Cannon,  small  Arms, 
and  other  warlike  Stores  to  defend  her  from ;  or  even 
to  attack  the  Enemies  Privateers ;  the  Cap'  has  or- 
ders To  deliver  the  said  Recruits  at  Cuba  or  at  such 
other  Place  as  he  shall  find  his  Maj'.^  Army  encamped 
and  altho  the  Number  of  these  Recruits  may  appear 
to  your  Grace  but  small  yet  if  it  be  considered  what 
a  small  proportion  this  Colony  bears  to  the  neigh- 
boring Provinces  and  the  Number  of  Levys  we  sent 
the  last  year  we  make  no  doubt  but  your  Grace  will 
be  of  Opinion  that  we  have  greatly  exceeded  our 
Quotas.  The  Great  Expence  of  this  Colony  caus'd 
by  the  War  has  laid  us  under  a  Necessity  of  encreas- 
ing  the  quantity  of  our  Paper  Currency  which  causes 
heavy  complaints  from  some  of  our  neighbours  but 
we  humbly  hope  that  when  his  Majesty  is  truly 
informed  of  our  Circumstances  and  the  great  Zeal 
we  have  shown  for  his  Service  we  shall  meet  with 

1  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  30. 


214  Correspondence  of  the 

his  gracious  approbation  of  all  our  Conduct  As 
also  your  Graces  Patronage  for  this  Colony  if  any 
Attempts  should  be  made  (by  those  who  envy  our 
happiness)  to  deprive  us  [of]  our  Priviledges.  I 
heartily  wish  success  to  his  Maj^.^  Counsels  and  Arms 
and  that  your  Grace  may  long  continue  in  his  favour 
and  be  an  instrument  of  doing  good  as  well  to  this 
Colony  as  to  the  rest  of  his  Maj^*  dominions. 

May  it  Please  your  Grace  I  am,  With  the  greatest 
Respects 

Your  most  obedient  and  most  humble  Servant 

R.  Ward 

Endorsed :  To  the  Duke  of  Newcastle  1 74^. 


GOVERNOR   WARD   TO    RICHARD    PARTRmCE. 

Newport  April  21"!  1742 

Your  f av*^^  of  the  22"?  Feb:  and  I2'^  March  were 
this  day  received  for  which  I  return  you  hearty 
thanks.  Herewith  you'l  receive  the  Case  as  it  was 
heard  before  his  Majestys  Court  of  Comissioners 
and  the  Judgment  they  gave  thereon  respecting  the 
Eastern  Boundaries  of  this  Colony  towards  the  Pro- 
vince of  the  Massachusetts.^  You  will  observe  we 
have  appealed  from  that  Judgment  and  (if  the  inclosed 
state  of  the  Case  or  Arguments  in  the  Colonys  behalf 
be  thought  worthy  of  notice)  will  communicate  Them 
to  the  Gentlemen  whom  you  shall  employ  on  our 

1  See  p.  XX  of  the  Introduction. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       215 

Part.  I  doubt  not  you  will  puruse  this  affair  with 
utmost  application  and  if  you  shall  find  it  necessary 
for  this  Colony  to  make  you  any  further  remittances 
for  the  carrying  on  this  affair  let  Them  be  timely 
apprised  of  it  that  you  may  be  seasonably  supplied 
your  steady  and  diligent  pursuit  of  this  appeal  will 
recommend  you  to  the  favf  of  the  Government  who 
have  the  Case  at  heart     I  am  S' 

Your  sincere  friend 

R.  Ward 

Mr  Richard  Partridge  Merch*  In  London. 


GOVERNOR   WARD   TO    RICHARD    PARTRIDGE. 

Newport  April  26"  1742 

6'" 

Doctor  Teddeman  Hull  the  bearer  hereof  being 
bound  for  London  and  wholly  a  Stranger  their  and 
unknown  to  your  Selfe  and  in  order  that  you  may 
know  the  Character  of  the  Gentlem  I  inform  you 
that  he  is  the  Son  of  Cap'  John  Hull  late  of  this 
Colony  (under  whom  S'  Charles  Wager  was  edu- 
cated) ^  and  has  the  Character  of  an  honest  man,  he 
has  sustained  the  part  of  a  Justice  of  Peace  divers 
Years  amongst  us  and  has  been  several  times  for- 
merly and  latterly  a  Representative  for  the  Town  of 
James  Town;  he  is  a  facetious  Temper  and  has  a 
fair  Interest  in  Lands. 

I  have  sent  you  via  Boston  a  Copy  of  the  Case  of 

1  See  note  on  p.  76. 


2i6  Correspondence  of  the 

our  Eastern  Boundarys  and  the  State  thereof  drawn 
up  by  our  Council  and  a  Letter  To  the  Duke  of 
New-Castle  containing  an  Ace!  of  our  Recruits  for 
Gen'  Wentworth,  which  I  hope  youl  receive  Safely - 
I  am  Sr 

your  Assured  friend 

R.  Ward 
To  W.  Richard  Partridge  Merch* 
In  London 


THE   COMMISSIONERS    OF    CUSTOMS   TO   THE    GOVERNOR   AND 
COMPANY    OF    RHODE    ISLAND. 

Sir 

The  Bearer  hereof  Thomas  Lechmere  Esq'^  being 
deputed  by  us  pursuant  to  a  Warrant  from  the  Lords 
Commiss"  of  the  Treasury  to  the  Surveyor  General 
of  the  Northern  part  of  the  Continent  of  America 
in  the  room  of  John  Peagrum  Superceeded.  And 
he  having  received  Instructions  from  us  for  the  more 
effectual  putting  in  execution  the  Laws  relating  to 
Trade  and  Navigation.  We  desire  you  will  please 
to  be  assisting  with  your  Authority  to  the  said  Lech- 
mere and  the  other  Officers  of  the  Customs  under 
his  Inspection  as  they  shall  have  occasion  to  apply 
to  You  and  that  You  will  Strictly  command  all  Offi- 
cers and  Ministers  employd  under  You  to  be  assist- 
ing to  them  in  putting  in  Execution  the  Laws  against 

1  At  one  time  surveyor  of  the  port  of  Boston.  Ha  married  Ann,  daughter  of  Wait 
Winthrop,  of  Connecticut,  and  was  the  defendant  (in  behalf  of  his  wife)  in  the  famous 
case  of  Winthrop  vs.  Lechmere. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       217 

illegal  Trade  that  the  Service  under  our  Management 
may  be  effectually  carried  on.     We  are  Sir 

Your  most  humble  serv*' 
Custom  H°  Lond'?  16  May  1742  Chandler 

J.  Evelyn 
S  Anson 
John  Hill. 

To  The  Hon^!^  GovT  and  Company 

of  His  Majesty's  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  &c 
America 


GOVERNOR    WARD    TO    THE   HOUSE    OF    DEPUTIES. 

To  the  House  of  Deputies^ 

Geni'^ 

This  being  the  Sessions  for  granting  my  Salary 
for  the  Year  past,  desire  You'l  pass  a  Vote  for  the 
Same  and  likewise  to  consider  of  the  extraordinary 
Services  and  Pains  that  I  have  been  obliged  to  trans- 
act in  the  Year  past  of  which  You  are  not  unac- 
quainted with,  and  therefore  expect  You'l  allow  me 
a  reasonable  Compensation,  and  pass  a  Vote  to 
enable  me  to  draw  both  out  of  the  General  Treasury.^ 
I  am  Gent" 

Your  faithful  and  Assured  Friend  and  humble  Serv* 

RicH°  Ward 

June  23?  1742  To  the  House  of  Mag'.' 

1  The  Assembly  voted  that  the  sum  of  £350  be  paid  the  governor  "  for  his  last 
Years  Salary  and  extraordinary  Services."  See  the  manuscript  records  for  June  21, 
1742. 


2i8  Correspondence  of  the 


RICHARD   PARTRIDGE  TO   GOVERNOR   WARD. 

London  5?  mo :  or  July  14.  1742 
Goif.  Ward 

My  last  to  thee  was  of  the  8*?  Ins!  Via  New  York 
of  which  I  Send  thee  a  Copy.  My  SoHcitor  has 
Since  that  as  he  acquaints  me  read  over  the  whole 
Case  and  Record  of  the  ComP  But  for  want  of  the 
Plan  (which  is  not  Sent  me  with  the  Papers)  he 
cannot  make  any  usefull  application :  Enquiry  hath 
been  made  Both  at  The  Council  Office  and  Board  of 
Trade  but  no  Copys  of  the  Record  nor  yet  of  the 
Plan  is  Sent  in  thither.  However  as  the  Case  is  Cir- 
cumstanced our  Pet"  of  Appeal  is  drawn  up,  Engrost 
and  ready  to  present  against  next  Council  day  that 
we  may  get  the  Start  of  our  Antagonists  (as  theirs 
is  not  yet  Lodged)  which  we  apprehend  wof  be  an 
Advantage  to  us  in  haveing  the  Privilidge  of  Reply 
at  the  Hearing  by  our  Counsel. 

Altho'  we  can  present  our  Pet"  of  Appeal,  yet  we 
Cannot  pretend  to  bring  it  forwf  to  a  hear?  nor  Scarse 
to  prepare  for  itt,  with  out  a  Plan,  the  Case  being 
very  long  and  obscure  as  it  is,  which  would  be  illus- 
trated by  the  Plan,  and  therefore  pray  Send  it  me 
as  Soon  as  possible,  and  mark  the  Copy  of  itt  how 
we  are  to  Claim  the  Boundaries  for  if  the  Original 
Shoud  be  Sent  over  to  the  Masachusets  Agent  and 
be  in  his  Custody  the  Addition  to  it  of  a  Word,  or  a 
line  or  Even  a  Mark  may  hurt  our  Cause,  and  we 
have  no  possibility  of  Checking  it  here ;  the  Com?  I 
understand  ordered  all  the   Original   papers   to  be 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       2 1 9 

deposited  in  the  Sec^'  Office  at  N :  Y :  ^  and  what  is 
wanting  may  be  had  there  if  the  Colony  has  'em  not 
already 

Att  the  Same  time  please  to  Send  me  over  also  the 
Printed  and  Manuscript  Book^  in  1632,  1634,  1646, 
1652,  1674,  1677  (if  it  can  be)  which  the  Massach*^ 
offered,  but  which  the  Com?  rejected,  because  our 
Sol'  thinks  the  Masach*.'  will  try  here  to  get  them 
Received,  for  perhaps  the  Lords  may  be  willing  to 
Receive  all  the  Light  they  Can  have  and  we  ought 
to  be  acquainted  before  hand  of  what  it  is  the 
Masach*f  May  have  to  offer  against  Us,  and  we  Shall 
in  the  meantime  Endeavour  to  keep  off  the  Hearing 
till  I  hear  from  thee  in  Answere  Hereto. 

Since  writing  the  foregoing  our  Pet?  of  Appeal 
being  ready  I  have  got  a  Copy  of  it  made  out  which 
I  Send  thee  herewith. 

16?  ditto. 

The  King  Came  to  the  House  of  Lords  Yesterday 
and  put  an  End  of  the  Sessions  of  Parliament :  the 
Speech  he  made  on  that  Occasion  I  Send  thee  in 
the  inclosed  Print :  no  War  with  France  Yett, 

I  am  with  Respects  Thy  assured  Friend 

R?  Partridge 

23  ditto 

I   send   thee   some    Prints   per   this    Convey?  to 
T:  Hutchinson  Esq!  of  Boston  to  forward  to  thee 
To  Governor  Ward. 

1  The  reference  is  to  the  boundary  commission  of  1741,  by  whose  order  the  records 
of  the  court  were  deposited  there.     Arnold,  History  of  Rhode  Island,  II.  133. 

2  Probably  the  records  of  the  work  of  former  commissions  dealing  with  the  disputes 
with  Plymouth,  Massachusetts,  and  Connecticut  over  the  various  claims  to  the  Narra- 
gansett  country.     Arnold,  History  of  Rhode  Island,  I.     See  Index. 


2  20  Correspondence  of  the 

GENERAL    WENTWORTH    TO    CAPTAIN    HOPKINS.^ 

Kingston  Jama  Octo:  8'!'  1 742 
Sr 

As  His  Majestic  has  been  pleased  to  put  an  End 
to  the  Expedition,'^  And  to  Order  me  to  reduce  Col** 
Gooch's  Regiment,  And  to  send  them  to  the  North- 
ern Colonys,  I  take  this  first  Oportunity  of  Signi- 
fying to  you,  that  it  is  his  Majesties  Pleasure  that 
you  put  an  End  to  your  Recruiting,  and  that  you  do 
without  delay  after  this  Letter  shall  reach  you,  dis- 
charge such  Men  as  you  may  have  raised  for  the 
Service  of  the  said  Regiment. 

And  you  are  hereby  directed  to  draw  out  your 
Recruiting  Accounts,  and  send  them  forthwith  to 
Col°  Gooch  in  Virginia,  desiring  him  to  send  them 
by  the  first  Oportunity  to  Cap*  Alexander  Wilson  I 
am,  Sr 

Your  most  humble  Serv' 

Tho^  Wentwortp' 

To  Cap*  William  Hopkins 

of  Col?  Gooch's  Regim*  at  Rhoad  Island. 


GENERAL    WENTWORTH    TO    GOVERNOR   WARD. 

Sir 

His  majesty  having  Signifyed  To  me  That  it  is 
his  Pleasure  That  The  Expedition  Design'd  by  his 

1  See  note  to  letter  of  August  12,  1741. 

2  For  an  account  of  the  expedition  against  the  Spanish  West  Indies,  see  page  143. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       221 

Land  forces  against  The  King  of  Spains  Domin- 
ions In  South  America,  Should  be  putt  an  End  To, 
and  that  the  Regiment  Commanded  by  Coll  Gooch, 
Should  be  Immediately  Reduced,  and  That  I  Should 
Send  Back  To  north  America  all  such  Soldiers  of 
That  Regiment,  as  do  not  Choose  To  Remain  here 
In  The  Plantations,  or  To  Serve  in  Companys  on- 
board The  Fleet ;  I  have  taken  The  best  measures 
In  my  Power  for  Executing  The  above  orders,  and 
accordingly  have  Dispatcht  Transports  To  The 
Ports,  from  whence  The  Soldiers  may  be  most  Con- 
veniently Dispersd  To  Their  Respective  habitations ; 
Every  man  having  Received  his  full  Pay  To  Octo- 
ber the  24*^  his  Firelock,  and  The  Cloathing  of 
which  he  was  Possesst,  at  The  Time  of  his  Reduc- 
tion, according  To  what  his  majesty  was  Graciously 
Pleasd  To  Promise,  att  The  first  Raising  The  Regi- 
ment. 

As  Some  of  The  men  will  Probably  arrive  feeble, 
and  Sick,  I  beg  Leave  Sir,  To  Recommend  it  To 
you.  That  They  may  be  Commodiously  Convey 'd 
To  Their  Respective  habitations,  as  men  who  have 
undergone  a  good  Deal  of  hazard,  and  hardships, 
During  The  Course  of  Their  service  In  This  Part 
of  The  world     I  am,  S' 

Your  most  obedient  Serv* 

Tho^   Wentworth 

Kingston  Jamaica  October  15  1742, 

His  Excellency  The  Governor  of  Rhoad  Island. 


222  Correspondence  of  the 


GOVERNOR   WILLIAM    SHIRLEY^   TO   GOVERNOR   WARD. 

Sir 

Being  informed  that  your  Honour  has  divers  Span- 
ish Prisoners  with  you,  brought  in  by  Cpt.  Rouse, 
and  among  them  some  Persons  of  Consequence, 
namely  an  Officer  or  two  in  the  Land  Service,  and 
a  Captain  of  a  Privateer  and  a  Master  of  a  Schooner ; 
which  two  last  are  good  Pilots,  as  well  in  the  Span- 
ish West  Indies  as  on  the  Coasts  and  Harbours  of 
the  English  in  North  America;  And  apprehending 
it  to  be  the  Duty  of  the  Governours  of  the  Planta- 
tions to  correspond  with  each  other  for  their  mutual 
Assistance,  in  all  Matters  wherein  his  Majesty's  Ser- 
vice and  the  Interest  and  Safety  of  the  Provinces 
are  concerned ;  I  thought  it  proper  to  acquaint  you 
that  it  is  my  Opinion  that  Prisoners  of  such  Conse- 
quence should  be  sent  home,  and  delivered  to  one  of 
his  Majesty's  Secretaries  of  State,  with  a  full  Acco* 
of  their  Charecters  and  Circumstances,  to  prevent 
any  ill  Effects  of  their  being  left  at  large,  and  that 

1  Shirley  was  governor  of  Massachusetts  from  1741  to  1757.  He  was  born  in  Sus- 
sex, England,  and  emigrated  to  Boston  in  1731,  where  he  became  a  persistent  place- 
hunter.  He  was  conspicuous  in  raising  troops  for  Cathcart's  expedition,  in  1740. 
In  1 741  he  served  on  the  commission  to  settle  the  Rhode  Island  boundary.  As  gov- 
ernor he  was  noted  for  his  determined  attempts  to  restrain  the  colonial  issues  of 
paper  money,  and  for  his  part  in  military  affairs.  The  capture  of  Louisburg  was  due 
to  him,  as  regards  both  the  idea  and  its  execution.  From  1749  to  1753  he  was  on 
leave  of  absence.  In  1755  he  led  an  unsuccessful  expedition  against  Niagara.  Upon 
Braddock's  death,  Shirley  was  made  commander-in-chief  of  the  British  forces  in  Amer- 
ica, but  he  had  incurred  the  displeasure  of  the  New  York  politicians,  who  intrigued 
until  he  was  superseded  in  his  command.  In  1756  he  was  ordered  to  England  by 
Lord  Loudoun,  who  held  him  responsible  for  the  loss  of  Oswego,  and  was  removed 
from  his  governorship  in  the  following  year.  He  was  made  governor  of  the  Bahamas, 
returned  to  Massachusetts  in  1770,  and  died  there  in  1771.  He  was  buried  in  King's 
Chapel,  Boston.    J.  A.  Doyle  in  Diet.  Nat.  Biog. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        223 

the  Governm*  may  dispose  of  them  in  such  man- 
ner as  may  be  most  for  his  Majesty's  Service.  Your 
Honour  will  excuse  me  that  I  use  this  Freedom,  and 
I  pray  that  you  will  take  the  like  with  me,  as  Occa- 
sion shall  require.    I  am.  Sir, 

Your  Honour's  most  Obedient,  Humble  Servant 

W  Shirley. 

Boston  Novem!  8. 1742. 
Hon^!^  Govf  Ward. 


RICHARD    PARTRmGE   TO    GOVERNOR  WARD. 

London  12  mo  or  feb^  21"  I74f. 
Gov''.  Ward 

Thy  favour  of  the  6*?*  DecT  last  I  have  received  with 
the  Copy  of  the  Plan  referred  to  in  the  Colonys  State 
of  their  Case  and  allmost  at  the  same  time  came  to 
hand  from  New  York  an  Authenticated  Plan  of  the 
same  of  a  larger  Size  —  certified  by  the  Surveyor 
Gen"  and  the  Collector  and  the  Chief- Justice  three 
of  the  Commissi,  and  now  I  apprehend  we  are  Suf- 
ficiently Provided  with  wh!  is  necessary  to  Instruct 
our  Council  and  prepare  for  the  Hearing  upon  our 
appeal,  which  I  intend  shall  be  prosecuted  with  all 
Convenient  Expedition,  for  Since  Receiving  the  Plan 
we  have  already  got  the  Cause  sett  down  in  the  List 
at  the  Council  Office  for  a  Hearing  before  the  Lords 
Committee  of  Council  to  whom  our  Petition  of  Ap- 
peal was  Referred,  because  there  are  several  Causes 
down  allready  before  us,  and  we  would  get  as  early 
a  Turn  as  Possible,  it  being  for  our  Interest  (as  we 


2  24  Correspondence  of  the 

Judge)  to  be  the  Partys  that  apply  to  bring  it  on. 
The  Colony  may  depend  on  my  best  Endeavours  in 
the  Course  of  the  proceedings  towards  bringing  it  to 
a  good  Issue  for  us,  and  I  do  gratefully  acknowledge 
their  favour  in  keeping  me  duly  Supplyed  having 
lately  had  a  Remittance  from  Peter  Bours  and  Jos: 
Whipple  Esq? 

Our  Briefs  long  as  they  are  were  all  Prepared  last 
Summer  but  Could  not  get  the  Case  ready  for  Print- 
ing before,  but  now  we  may  do  it 

In  this  Session  of  Parliam'  nothing  has  been  ex- 
hibited to  the  prejudice  of  the  Plantations,  Matters 
are  Carried  on  there  by  a  Considerable  Majority,  in 
such  as  Concern  the  King  and  its  thought  they  will 
break  up  in  about  a  Month  or  6  Weeks  time  more, 
and  that  its  Probable  there  will  be  yet  Some  more 
Changes  in  the  Ministry,  the  War  with  Spain  like  to 
Continue,  but  we  have  none  with  France  yet,  for  the 
Rest  I  referr  to  the  Prints  herewith  sent,  and  Remain 
with  Dew  Respects  to  thy  Self  and  the  Gentl"  of  the 
Council, 

Thy  Assured  Friend, 

RichP  Partridge 

We  have  engaged  the  attorney  General^  and  the 
famous  Counsel.  Murray^  who  is  now  Sol'  Gen!  as 
Counsel  for  us  on  our  Side 

Leon"^  Lockman^  appointed  Judge  of  the  Admi- 

1  St.  George  Canfield,  appointed  in  1742. 

2  William  Murray,  who  gained  popularity  by  his  eloquent  support  of  the  Spanish 
war  in  the  House  of  Commons.  He  was  attorney-general  to  the  Newcastle  adminis- 
tration, was  made  lord  chief  justice  of  the  King's  Bench  in  1756,  and  first  Earl  of 
Mansfield  in  1776. 

3  See  note  to  letter  of  3  mo.  (May)  28,  1743. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       225 


ralty  of  yof  Colony  goes  over  per  the  first  Man  of 
War  that  goes  that  way 

To  Richard  Ward,  EsqT 

Governor  and  Comandr  in  chief  of  the  Colony 
of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plantations 


THE    DUKE    OF    NEWCASTLE    TO    THE    GOVERNOR   AND 
COMPANY    OF    RHODE    ISLAND. 

George  R. 

Trusty  and  Welbeloved,  We  greet  You  well. 
Whereas  the  Sieur  Hop  Envoy  Extraordinary  from 
our  Good  Friends  and  Allies,  the  States  General  of 
the  United  Provinces,  has  made  Strong  and  repeated 
Complaints  to  Us,^  that  since  the  Commencement  of 
the  present  War  with  Spain,  the  Captains  and  Offi- 
cers of  Our  Ships  of  War,  and  others  acting  under 
Our  Commission,  have,  without  any  Regard  to  the 
Terms  of  the  Treaty  of  Marine^  between  our  Royal 
Predecessor  King  Charles  the  Second,  and  their  High 
Mightinesses  the  States  General  of  the  United  Neth- 
erlands, concluded  at  London  the  i^.*  Day  of  De- 
cember 1674  S.  V.  confirmed  by  Subsequent  Trea- 
tys,  frequently  made  prize  of  Dutch  Ships  and  their 
Cargoes  as  well  in  Europe,  as  in  America,  upon  pre- 
tence of  their  having  on  board  Spanish  Effects,  tho' 
not  contraband ;  And  it  being  Our  Royal  Intention 
that  all  Engagements,  which   Subsist  between  Us, 

1  See  letter  of  July  14,  1743. 

2  This  was  a  renewal  of  the  Marine  Treaty  of  1668,  which  defined  the  rights  and 
obligations  of  neutral  nations. 


226  Correspondence  of  the 

And  Our  said  good  Friends  and  Allies  the  States 
General  should  be  most  carefully  and  religiously  ob- 
served ;  It  is  therefore  Our  will  and  Pleasure,  and 
We  do  hereby  authorize,  and  empower  You  to  enjoyn 
all  Captains  of  Ships  to  whom  you  shall  grant  Let- 
ters of  Marque,  or  Commissions,  for  private  Men  of 
War  against  the  King  of  Spain  and  his  Subjects, 
to  observe  carefully  and  religiously  the  said  Treaty 
Marine,  and  give  Security  pursuant  to  the  Tenth 
Article  for  their  due  performance  thereof.  And  so 
We  bid  you  Farewell.  Given  at  Our  Court  at  S! 
Jame's  the  Thirteenth  Day  of  April  1743.  in  the 
Sixteenth  Year  of  Our  Reign. 

By  His  Majesty's  Command 

HoLLEs  Newcastle 

To  Our  Trusty  and  Welbeloved 

The  Governor  and  Company  of  Rhode  Island 
and  Providence  Plantation  in  America,  Or  to 
the  Governor  and  Company  of  the  said  Col- 
ony for  the  time  being. 


RICHARD   PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR   WARD. 

London  3?  month  28.  1743 
Gov^.  Ward, 

I  Apprehend  it  my  Duty  to  Acquaint  thee  that  of 

late  the  Crown  has  appointed  Naval  Officers  in  Sev- 

erall  Governments  of  the  Plantations  one  reason  for 

which  as  I  understand  is  that  it  is  more  likely  the 

Acts  of  Trade  and  Navigation  wof  then  better  be  put 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       227 

in  due  Execution  than  by  those  who  are  Appointed 
in  the  Colony  by  the  respective  Governor's  tho'  by 
Act  of  ParHament  ^  the  right  is  in  the  Gov^  Among 
the  rest  Leonard  Lockman  ^  a  Person  Commissioned 
to  be  Judge  of  the  AdmiraHty  of  your  Colony  is  also 
now  made  Naval  Ofificer  who  goes  over  in  the  Tor- 
rington  Man  of  War  by  way  of  N.  York,  and  as  I 
take  this  to  be  prejudicial  to  the  right  of  our  Charter 
as  well  as  to  the  GovT  I  judged  it  proper  to  exhibit 
a  Petition  against  such  Nomination,  a  Copy  whereof 
comes  inclosed^  which  is  lodged  at  the  Council 
Ofhce  but  till  I  have  Instructions  from  the  Colony  I 
shall  not  prosecute  it  but  let  it  lye  dormant,  least  it 
shof  at  this  time  prejudice  our  Colony  otherwise  in  a 
greater  degree  having  heard  some  Hints  thrown  out 
against  us  which  if  prosecuted  here  might  prove  Dis- 
advantagious  to  us  all  tho'  at  present  they  are  winked 
at,  however  when  the  said  Lockman  gets  over  and 
the  Colony  shall  think  fit  to  refuse  to  Admit  him  as 
Naval  Ofificer  and  give  me  Instructions  to  defend 
their  rights  in  that  respect  I  shall  act  accordingly. 


1  See  letter  of  October  29,  1743. 

2  A  committee  was  appointed  by  the  General  Assembly  to  inspect  Lockman's  patent 
as  clerk  in  the  naval  office,  and  reported  that  the  office  was  in  the  appointment  of  the 
colonial  governor,  not  of  the  Crown.  This  report  was  accepted.  As  judge  of  vice- 
admiralty,  Lockman  found  himself  so  hampered  that  he  complained  to  the  Crown,  and 
his  complaints  occasioned  an  especial  answer  from  the  General  Assembly  {Col.  Rec.  of 
R.  /.,  v.  96).  The  true  inwardness  of  this  stand  for  privilege  on  the  part  of  the  colo- 
nists would  seem  to  be  found  in  Partridge's  suggestion  that  upon  the  appointment  of 
a  naval  officer  by  the  Crown  the  Acts  of  Trade  and  Navigation  would  be  more  strictly 
executed.  So  far  as  the  office  of  judge  of  admiralty  was  concerned,  we  find  the 
Assembly,  in  the  session  of  March,  174?,  voting  that,  "Whereas,  the  judge  of  admi- 
ralty, for  this  colony,  being  gone  home  for  Great  Britain,  and  his  deputy  appointed 
here,  declining  to  serve  any  longer ;  —  It  is  therefore  voted,  that  M'.  John  Gidley,  of 
Newport,  in  the  county  of  Newport,  be,  and  he  is  hereby  appointed  judge  of  the 
admiralty  for  this  colony,  until  a  person  be  properly  appointed  from  home,  to  that 
office."     Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  60. 

3  See  the  following  document. 


228  Correspondence  of  the 

He  says  he  shall  appoint  J.  Honyman  his  Deputy 
and  has  got  leave  for  it  from  the  Lords  of  the  Admi- 
ralty here.  Our  Cause  relating  to  the  Boundarys  is 
now  the  Sixth  on  the  List  for  hearing  before  the 
Lords  Com"  of  Council  but  it's  thought  that  it  will 
be  the  fall  of  the  Year  before  it  will  be  possible  to 
bring  it  on  to  be  heard.     I  am, 

Thy  Assured  ffriend 

RichP  Partridge 

4  month  lo'.'' 

Our  good  Fr*^  Sf  Cha.  Wager  ^  is  lately  deceased. 
The  King  is  gone  to  Germany  and  its  expected  will 
bring  about  an  Accommodation  between  the  Queen 
of  Hungary  and  the  Emperor  leaving  the  French  in 
the  Lurch.  If  that  be  done  probably  we  may  have  a 
Peace  with  Spain  but  this  last  is  uncertain  yet 

R  P 

To  Richard  Ward  Esq'' 

Governour  and  Commander  in  Chief  of  the 
Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plan- 
tations 


RICHARD    PARTRmGE    TO    THE    LORDS    JUSTICES.'^ 

To  the  Lords  Justices  in  Council 

The  Humble  Petitio7i  of  Rich^  Partridge  Agent 
for  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence 
Plantations  in  America 

Sheweth  That  by  Charter  under  the   Great  Seal 

1  See  note  on  p.  211. 

2  Enclosed  in  letter  of  3  mo.  (May)  28,  1743. 


RICHARD   WARD 

1 740- 1 743 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       229 

King  Charles  the  Second  Incorporated  GovT  and 
Comp^  of  the  s*?  Colony  and  for  valuable  Considera- 
tions granted  them  sundry  necesary  Powers  and 
Privilidges  for  the  well  ordering  and  good  Goverm' 
thereof  and  more  especially  Powers  to  constitute 
proper  Offices. 

That  the  Laws  and  Statutes  of  this  Kingdom  have 
invested  the  Govf  of  all  his  Maj'?^  Colonys  with  the 
Power  of  appointing  the  Naval  Officers  in  the  same 
and  for  whom  those  Govern?  are  answerable. 

In  consequence  whereof  not  only  the  Gov^  of  Rhode 
Island  but  of  all  the  others  of  his  Maj*';^  Colonys 
whatsoever  have  from  time  to  time  constituted  the 
Naval  Officers  from  the  first  Erection  of  that  Office 
to  the  present  time  without  any  Exception  to  the 
contrary,  that  yo^  Petr  is  able  to  discover. 

But  yo^  Petitioner  is  very  lately  informed  that 
Leon*^  Lockman  Esq!  hath  obtained  or  is  applying 
to  obtain  a  Warrant  or  a  Grant  under  the  great  Seal 
to  the  Naval  Officer  of  Rhode  Island  during  his 
Maj*^'  pleasure. 

Which  Information  makes  it  indidspensible  duty 
of  yo!  Petf  as  Agent  for  the  s*^  Colony  humbly  to 
represent  That  such  an  Appointm!  of  the  s*?  Leon^ 
Lockman  is  as  yor  Petf  humbly  apprehends  prejudi- 
cial to  the  Rights  and  Privilidges  vested  in  the  s'? 
Govern^  and  Comp*  not  only  by  their  Charter  but 
also  by  the  Acts  of  Parliament. 

And  may  be  of  the  greatest  Inconvenience  to 
Trade  and  Commerce  in  those  parts,  since  that  the 
Rule  for  carrying  on  the  same  as  laid  down  by  the 
Acts  of    Parliament    require   all  Persons  Tradeing 


230  Correspondence  of  the 

thither  to  make  Entrys  and  Perform  Sundry  Acts 
before  the  Naval  Officer  appointed  by  the  Governour 
and  if  omitted  lay  the  Traders  under  Penalties  and 
forfeitures  of  no  less  than  Ship  and  Cargoe. 

Your  Petitioner  therefore  most  humbly  prays  that 
you  would  not  permit  such  Warrant  or  Grant  to  pass 
to  the  sf  Leonard  Lockman.  And  that  in  Case  the 
same  has  already  passed  the  same  may  be  revoked 
and  determined  with  an  Order  to  the  s*^  Lockman 
not  to  proceed  to  Act  under  the  same  untill  you  may 
have  received  satisfaction  therein. 

All  which  is  humbly  Submitted 

Rich?  Partridge 


ANDREW   STONE   TO   THE    GOVERNOR   OF   RHODE    ISLAND. 

Whitehall  14'?'  July  1743. 
Sir, 

A  Memorial  ^  from  Mof  Hop,  Minister  from  the 
States  General  to  his  Majesty,  having  been  laid  be- 
fore their  Excellencies  the  Lords  Justices,  complain- 
ing, that  a  Bark  of  Cura9oa  named  La  Gertrude, 
Captain  Samuel  Baal  Commander,  being  at  Anchor 
near  Rio  de  la  Hache,  in  order  to  take  in  Wood  and 
Water,  was  attacked  by  Three  English  Privateers, 
commanded  by  Robert  Flowers,  John  Rous  and  Wil- 
liam Wilkinson  who  seized  upon  the  said  Bark,  and 
carried  her  into  Newport  in  Rhode  Island,  notwith- 
standing, after  visiting  her,  they  had  found  no  coun- 
terband   Goods   on    board,   and    that   the    Court    of 

1  See  next  document  for  a  translation  of  the  Memorial ;  also  letter  of  March  15, 
1744. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       231 

Admiralty  there  had  condemned  the  said  Bark  in 
Consequence  of  which  She  was  confiscated,  and  the 
Produce  divided  amongst  the  Captors  contrary  to 
the  Treatys  subsisting  between  His  Majesty  and  the 
Republick;  I  am  commanded  by  their  Excellencies 
to  signify  their  Directions  to  you,  that  you  do  im- 
mediately procure,  and  send  over  hither  to  be  laid 
before  them  the  proceedings  of  the  said  Court  of 
Admiralty,^  upon  the  Tryal  of  that  Vessel,  with  a 
full  Account  of  the  Reasons  which  induced  the  said 
Court  to  proceed  to  the  Condemnation  of  her,  I  am 
Sir, 

Your  most  obedient  humble  Servant. 

Andrew  Stone 
Governor  of  Rhode  Island 


TRANSLATION    OF   THE    DUTCH    COMPLAINT   AGAINST 
PRIVATEERS.^ 

Wherease,  Abraham  Diaz  Coutino  and  ComT  Mer- 
cha'?  Inhabitants  under  our  Jurisdictions  and  Sub- 
ject to  their  High  Mightyness's  the  States  Generall 
of  the  Netherlands,  to  us  the  Governour  have  made 
knowen,  that  they  on  the  23'?  of  April  1743.  on  their 
own  accounts  and  Risques  did  fitt  out  from  hence 
their  Sloop  Named  the  Juffro  Sarah,  Commanded 
by  Schipper  Coenvaat  Huybling,  to  Trade  to  all  the 
Free  Ports  in  the  West  Indies,  since  which  the  above 

1  In  the  session  of  February,  1744,  a  committee  was  appointed  by  the  Assembly  to 
answer  the  letter  of  the  Lords  Justices,  and  to  send  home  a  copy  of  the  decree  of  the 
court  of  vice-admiralty.     Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  79. 

2  Enclosed  with  letter  of  July  14,  1743. 


232  Correspondence  of  the 

named  owners,  have  been  well  Informed,  that  the  s^ 
Sloop  being  on  the  High  Sea  of  Commena,  was  on  the 
if"^  July,  1743.  taken  by  an  English  Privateer  Com- 
missioned by  your  Honour,  Commanded  by  Capf  Wil- 
liam Hopkins  which  takeing  is  Directly  Contrary  to 
the  Treaty  between  his  Majesty  of  Great  Brittain  and 
their  High  Mightyness's  the  States  Generall.  the  s^ 
Privateer  being  ready  to  Engage  that  the  s^  Schipper 
was  obliged  to  Strike,  the  Privateer  then  Boarded 
him  and  Proceeded  with  him  and  his  Sloop  for  your 
Honour's  Jurisdictions  as  Lawfull  Prize,  which  seemes 
very  strange  to  us  that  a  Privateer  under  the  English 
Goverment  should  Act  in  such  a  manner,  not  only 
so,  but  also  not  to  pay  any  regaurd  to  the  Declara- 
tion of  his  Majesty  of  Great  Brittain,  of  this  Present 
year  1743,  made  at  the  Instances  of  their  High 
Mightyness's  which  s^  Declaration  was  Signed  by  the 
Lord  Carteret  and  authentick  Coppey  of  which  wee 
had  the  Honour  to  receive  by  the  last  Vessells 
arrived  here  from  Holland  In  which  Declaration  His 
Majesty  of  Great  Brittain  Declares  to  all  the  Gov- 
ernours  in  America  that  they  Pay  a  Due  Regaurd  to 
the  Maritime  Treaty  of  the  i'.'  Dec!"  1674.  and  Punc- 
tually observe  the  same.  Pursuant  to  which  wee 
Pray  your  Honour  that  the  s'^  Sloop  be  sett  Free 
with  Every  thing  belonging  to  her  (thats  not  Con- 
traband) as  also  that  she  be  allowed  all  the  Charges 
she's  been  put  to,  and  wee  shall  allways  think  it  our 
Duty  to  Retalliate  and  to  keep  up  a  Good  Friend- 
ship between  the  Subjects  of  his  Majesty  of  Great 
Brittain  and  those  of  their  High  Mightyness's  the 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        233 

States  Generall.     wee  are  with  much  Respect  and 

Friendship  Your  Honour's  Friend  and 

Most  Humble  Serv* 

J.  Faesch. 
Curacao,  30  July  1743. 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    GOVERNOR    GREENE.^ 

London  5  month  or  July  28'?  1743 

Gov''  Green^ 

As  thou  art  Elected  Gov5  of  Rhode  Island  I  take 
it  to  be  my  duty  to  Write  thee  Concerning  the 
Affairs  of  the  Colony  depending  here  w""?"  at  present 
are  as  follows,  —  I  did  some  time  since  Write  over 
Advising  that  one  Leonard  Lockman  who  is  Ap- 
pointed Judge  of  the  Admiralty  in  your  Colony  had 
also  obtained  a  Grant  from  the  Crown  to  be  Naval 
Officer  w''?'  I  apprehending  to  be  an  infringement  on 
the  Priviledges  of  your  Charter  had  Petitioned  the 
Lords  Justices  against  the  said  appointment^  w'^.'' 
Petition  lyes  still  at  the  Council  Office,  and  shall  not 
proceed  further  on  it  till  I  have  proper  Instructions, 
neither  do  I  find  I  can  till  it  be  known  whether  the 
Colony  thinks  fit  to  Admit  him  or  not  when  he 
comes  there,  if  they  sho"?  not.  The  labouring  Oar  will 
then  be  upon  him  if  he  shall  see  meet  to  Exhibit  any 
Complaint :   I  suppose  he  is  yet  at  Portsmouth  wait- 

1  Greene  was  deputy-governor  in  1741  and  1742,  and  elected  governor  in  1743,  i744> 
1746,  1748  to  1755,  and  in  1757.  He  died  in  February,  1758.  He  was  prominent  in 
Rhode  Island  politics  as  the  candidate  of  the  Ward  party  in  the  famous  Ward-Hop- 
kins controversy,  which  came  first  to  the  front  in  1755. 

2  See  note  to  letter  of  May  28,  1743-  The  Lockman  affair  was  still  pending 
settlement  in  1749.  See  letters  of  October  29,  1743,  February  i  and  23,  1744,  and  that 
of  Governor  Greene  to  Partridge,  June  18,  1749;  also  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  I-i  V.  270. 


234  Correspondence  of  the 

ing  to  go  over  via  New  York  by  a  Ship  who  Sails 
per  the  first  fair  Wind, 

As  to  the  Grand  Affair  of  the  Colonys  ab!  the 
Boundarys  with  the  Massach?  our  Petition  of  Appeal 
was  first  lodged  as  I  have  already  advised  in  due 
time  and  set  down  on'  the  list  According  as  the  man- 
ner is  at  the  Council  Office  for  a  hearing  before  the 
Lords  Committee  of  Council,  but  as  yet  ours  does 
not  come  on,  and  do  what  we  can  I  believe  it  will  be 
ab^  October  next  before  it  will  come  forward  ^  in  the 
mean  time  We  shall  be  duly  prepared  and  our  Coun- 
cil Instructed  and  hope  we  shall  at  length  have  it 
happily  Issued  for  us. 

As  to  Publick  News  thou  willt  doubtless  have 
heard  of  the  Victory  our  King  with  his  Army  in 
Germany  obtained  over  the  ffrench  under  the  Com- 
mand of  their  General  the  Marshall  Noailes  altho' 
the  latter  were  Considerably  Superiour  in  Number. 
The  Duke  of  Cumberland  was  Wounded  but  like 
to  do  very  well  again.  The  King  received  no  hurt, 
As  both  these  Armies  are  looked  upon  as  AuxiHa- 
ries  only,  the  one  to  the  Queen  of  Hungary  and  the 
other  to  the  Emperor  its  very  questionable  whether 
the  Consequence  will  be  attended  with  a  general 
ffrench  War. 

Prince  Charles  Brother  in  law  to  the  Queen  of 
Hungary  and  her  famous  Generalissimo  is  arrived 
at  Hannaco  to  concert  further  Measures  with  our 
King  w'^.''  probably  will  be  to  drive  the  ffrench  out  of 
Germany  and  then  endeavour  to  take  Lorrain,  from 
them  for  the  said  Queen  by  way  of  some  Compensa- 

1  See  letter  of  Partridge  to  Deputy-Governor  Whipple,  written  4ber  (June)  15,  1744. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       235 

tion,  for  the  rest  I  referr  to  the  Prints  now  sent  and 
remain 

Thy  Assured  ffriend 

RiCH°  Partridge 
To  William  Green  Esq' 

Governour  and  Commander  in  chief  of  the  Col- 
ony of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Planta- 
tions 


THOMAS   CORBETT^  TO   THE    GOVERNORS   IN   AMERICA. 

Copy  of  a  Letter  from  M!  Corbett  to   the  several  Governors  of  his 
Majesty's  Colonies  in  America,     dated  the  19'?  August  1743. 

My  Lords  Commissioners  of  the  Admiralty  hav- 
ing had  frequent  Complaints  made  to  them  by  the 
Commanders  of  his  Majesty's  Ships  and  Vessels  in 
America,  that  they  are  often  interrupted  in  their 
endeavours  to  procure  Seamen  to  make  up  their 
Complements  in  order  the  better  to  enable  them  to 
execute  their  Lordships  Instructions  for  protecting 
the  Trade  of  the  Colonies  they  attend  on,  and  annoy- 
ing the  Enemy ;  And  it  appearing  to  their  Lord- 
ships, that  the  obstructions  the  Captains  meet  with 
from  the  Inhabitants  in  America  and  Masters  of 
Merchant  Ships  trading  there,  is  cheifly  grounded 
upon  an  opinion  prevailing  among  them,  that  the 
American  Act,  made  in  the  Reign  of  Queen  Anne, 
prohibiting  the  Pressing  in  America,  is  still  in  Force ; 
I  am  commanded  by  their  Lordships  to  send  you 
the  inclosed  Opinions  of  Sir  Edward  Northey;^  His 

1  Secretary  of  the  Admiralty  from  1721  until  his  death,  in  1751. 

2  Sir  Edward  Northey  was  attorney-general  from  1701  to  1707,  and  from  1710  to 
1718.     He  was  knighted  in  1702. 


236  Correspondence  of  the 

late  Majesty's  Attorney  General,  and  of  Sir  Dudley 
Ryder  ^  Attorney,  and  Sir  John  Strange  ^  Solicitor 
General,  by  which  you  will  plainly  see,  that  the 
American  Act,  on  which  the  Inhabitants  and  Mas- 
ters of  Merchant  Ships  lay  so  much  Stress,  expired 
at  the  end  of  the  late  French  War. 

Their  Lordships  hope  that  when  these  Opinions, 
and  that  the  People  there  are  sensible  that  His 
Majesty's  Ships  want  Men  for  no  other  use  than  to 
protect  their  Trade  and  Settlements,  and  guard  them 
from  their  Enemies,  there  will  not  be  any  more  such 
Disputes  raised,  and  obstruction  given  to  the  neces- 
sary Work  of  Manning  them  ;  And  their  Lordships 
recommend  it  to  you  to  settle  Men's  Minds  on  this 
point,  as  you  see  occasion,  and  to  give  all  necessary 
Assistance  to  His  Majesty's  Officers  to  procure  Men, 
when  they  apply  to  you  for  that  purpose. 

Copy  of  the  Opinion  of  the  late  Sir  Edward  Northey,  his  Ma''.'  Attor- 
ney Gen'.,  in  relation  to  the  American  Act,  dated  the  10'.''  Feb!' 

I  am  of  Opinion  that  the  whole  American  Act 
was  intended,  and  appears  to  have  been  intended 
only  for  the  War. 

Edward  Northey. 

Copy  of  the  joint  Opinion  of  Sir  Dudley  Ryder,  Attorney,  and  Sir 
John  Strange  Solicitor  Gen',  in  relation  to  the  American  Act,  dated 
1 7V'  July  1740. 

We  have  perused  the  several  Clauses  in  the  Amer- 
ican  Act,   and   by  comparing   the    several    Clauses 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        237 

together,  it  seems  to  Us  that  the  Act  is  not  now  in 
force,  but  expired  at  the  end  of  the  then  War. 

D.  Ryder  J.  Strange 


ANDREW   STONE   TO   THE   GOVERNOR   OF   RHODE    ISLAND. 

Whitehall.  Oct!  i'.'  1743. 
Gentlemen^ 

I  am  commanded  by  Their  Excellencies  The 
Lords  Justices  to  transmit  to  You  herewith,  a  Re- 
presentation from  the  Lords  Comm?  of  the  Admi- 
ralty,^ Setting  forth  the  Obstructions  given  by  the 
Inhabitants  of  his  Majesty's  Colonies,  and  Planta- 
tions in  America,  to  the  Captains  of  His  Maj'^'^  Ships 
of  War,  in  procuring  Men  to  recruit  the  Comple- 
ments of  Their  Ships,  and  in  retaking  such  Sailors, 
as  have  deserted  from  Them;  and  Complaining  par- 
ticularly, That  Several  of  the  s^  Captains  had  been 
insulted  by  the  Populace,  and  forced  to  release  such 
Men,  as  They  had  impress'd,  and  even  Deserters 
from  their  own  Ships ;  And  That  Other  Captains 
had  been  imprison'd,  or  forced  to  give  exhorbitant 
Bail,  upon  Actions  brought  against  Them,  for  im- 
pressing Seamen ;  Which  Proceedings  Their  Lo^^ 
represent  to  be  occasion'd  by  a  Notion  prevailing 
in  Those  Parts,  That  the  Act  of  Parliament,  which 
pass'd  in  the  Reign  of  the  late  Queen  Anne,  (and 
which  is  commonly  call'd  the  American  Act,  by 
which  the  Impressing  Men  for  the  Sea  Service  in 
America,  was  prohibited,)  is  still  in  Force :  Whereas 

1  See  the  following  document. 


238  Correspondence  of  the 

You  will  see  by  the  Copies,^  annex'd  to  the  s*^  Repre- 
sentation, of  the  Opinions  sign'd  by  Sir  Edward 
Northey,  Attorney  General  to  His  late  Maj'7,  and  by 
Sir  Dudley  Rider,  His  Maj'^''  Attorney  General,  and 
Sir  John  Strange,  late  Solicitor  General,  That  the 
said  Act  is  not  now  in  Force :  And  I  am  therefore 
commanded  to  signify  to  you  Their  Excellencies 
Directions,  That  you  should  exert  your  utmost  Au- 
thority in  preventing,  for  the  future,  Such  Riots  and 
Disorders,  as  are  complain'd  of  by  the  said  Repre- 
sentation ;  and  that  You  should  assist  the  Com- 
manders of  His  Maj*y>  Ships,  in  procuring  Seamen,  to 
make  up  Their  Complements,  whenever  They  shall 
make  Application  to  You  for  that  Purpose ;  As  also 
in  retaking  Deserters  from  the  said  Ships. 
I  am.  Gentlemen, 

Your  most  obedient  humble  Servant, 

Andrew  Stone 

Govf  and  Company  of  Rhode  Island. 


THE   LORDS    OF    THE    ADMIRALTY    TO    THE    LORDS  JUSTICES.^ 

May  it  please  Your  Excellency s, 

The  Difficulty  of  keeping  His  Majesty's  Ships 
of  War,  that  are  employed  in  America,  sufficiently 
manned  to  perform  the  Services  they  were  sent  on, 
is  in  it's  self  great,  from  the  unavoidable  Causes  of 
Deaths  and  Desertion,  the  latter  of  which  is  grown 

1  For  the  Opinions  see  the  preceding  document. 

2  Enclosed  in  letter  of  October  i,  1743. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       239 

familiar  among  the  Seamen,  either  for  the  sake  of 
high  Wages  given  by  the  Merchants,  or  from  their 
own  natural  Levity ;  But  the  Obstructions  given  by 
the  People  of  those  Colonys,  to  the  usual  Methods 
of  pressing,  made  use  of  by  the  Captains  of  His 
Majesty's  Ships,  to  recruit  their  Complements,  have 
of  late  been  so  violent,  and  carried  on  with  such 
Instances  of  Contempt  of  Government,  and  such  per- 
sonal ill  Treatment  of  the  Captains,  that  we  think  it 
incumbent  on  us  humbly  to  lay  before  Your  Excel- 
lencys,  in  the  annexed  Paper,^  Copys  of  the  Com- 
plaints we  have  received  from  the  said  Captains  on 
that  Head,  within  little  more  than  the  Space  of  a 
Year  past,  whereby  Your  Excellencys  will  perceive, 
that  some  of  the  said  Captains  have  been  mobbed, 
others  imprisoned,  and  afterwards  held  to  exorbitant 
Bail,  and  are  now  under  Prosecutions  carried  on  by 
Combination,  and  by  joint  Subscription  towards  the 
Expence. 

The  chief  Reason,  that  we  can  find  for  such  Oppo- 
sition, is  a  Belief  prevailing  among  the  People  here, 
that  the  American  Act  made  in  the  War  of  Queen 
Anne,  which  forbad  pressing  in  America,  is  still  in 
Force. 

We  have  sent  to  the  respective  Governors  and 
Judges  of  Vice  Admiralty  in  all  the  Colonys ;  the 
Opinion  of  Sf  Edward  Northey,  and  of  the  present 
Attorney  General,  and  of  S^  John  Strange,  all  agree- 
ing, that  the  said  American  Act  expired  with  the 
War,  in  which  it  was  made ;  Copys  of  which  Opinions, 
and  of  the  Letters  accompanying  the  same,  to  the 

1  This  paper  is  not  in  the  archives. 


240  Correspondence  of  the 

Governors  and  Judges  of  the  Vice  Admiralty,  are 
annexed/ 

In  the  Press  Warrants  which  we  give  to  the  Cap- 
tains of  His  Majesty's  Ships  in  America,  they  are 
strictly  required  not  to  distress  either  the  Merchant 
Ships,  or  the  Privateers,  Copy  of  which  Warrant  is 
annexed ;  ^  and  the  Captains  inform  us,  that  it  is 
their  usual  way  to  take  only  one  Man  out  of  five  or 
six,  and  if  they  have  any  Spanish  Prisoners,  they 
allow  them  one  for  each  Englishman  so  prest,  to 
assist  in  navigating  the  Merchant  Ship  home  to 
England. 

The  Governors  of  the  Colonys  appear  indeed  to 
show  a  Disposition  to  help  the  Captains  of  His 
Maj*y'^  Ships  to  get  Men,  when  they  apply  to  them ; 
but  whether  that  Disposition  be  real,  or  that  they 
want  Authority,  the  Captains  find  little  or  no  Help 
from  them  to  procure  Seamen,  nor  even  to  protect 
them  from  the  Rage  and  Insults  of  the  People. 

The  Consideration  therefore  of  the  many  ill  Con- 
sequences, that  may  attend  His  Majesty's  Service,  if 
the  Captains  of  the  Men  of  War  are  liable  to  be 
thrown  into  Jail,  abroad  in  the  Plantations,  by  any 
disaffected  Persons,  at  a  time  perhaps  that  they  are 
going  on  some  Expedition  or  Service  of  Importance 
against  the  Enemy,  and  always  while  they  are  in  the 
Execution  of  their  Orders  to  protect  the  Colonys 
and  their  Trade;  That  such  ignominious  Usage 
exposes  their  Commission  to  Contempt,  and  makes 
them  less  able  to  maintain  their  Command  on  board 
His  Majesty's  Ships  with  Honour  and  Discipline,  and 

1  See  p.  235  for  the  Opinions.  -  See  the  following  document. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       241 

also  that  while  the  Opinion  remains  of  the  Amer- 
ican Act  being  in  Force,  it  will  be  impossible  for 
His  Majesty's  Ships  to  recruit  the  Deficiency  of 
their  Complements,  are  our  Reasons  for  humbly  lay- 
ing this  Matter  before  Your  Excellencys ;  to  whom 
it  is  humbly  submitted. 

WiNCHILSEA. 

j.  cokbourne. 
Baltimore. 
Admiralty  Office  26'?  Sept!  1743.  Geo.   Lee. 

To  Their  Excellencys  the  Lords  Justices. 


THE  LORDS  OF  THE  ADMIRALTY  TO  THE  CAPTAINS.^ 

Copy  of  an  Order  from  the  Lords  Com'?  of  the  Admiralty  to  the 
several  Captains  of  His  Majesty's  Ships  in  America, 

Whereas  You  will  herewith  receive  Press  War- 
rants to  enable  You  to  raise  Men  for  keeping  up  as 
much  as  possible  the  Complement  of  the  Ship  under 
your  Command,  You  are  hereby  required  and  directed 
to  put  the  same  in  Execution  for  that  purpose,  as 
there  shall  be  Occasion ;  But  as  it  is  not  meant,  that 
the  Trade  of  His  Majesty's  Subjects  in  America,  or 
Ships  provided  with  Letters  of  Marque  to  Cruize 
against  the  Enemy  should  be  distressed  thereby,  but 
only  that  such  prudent  Use  be  made  of  the  said 
Press  Warrants  as  may  enable  you  to  procure  Men 
to  make  up  Your  Complement,  when  proper  Oppor- 
tunities offer  of  it.  You  are  to  take  great  Care  that 

1  Enclosed  in  a  letter  to  the  Lords  Justices,  of  September  26,  1743. 


242  Correspondence  of  the 

no  Indiscreet  or  Unreasonable  Use  be  made  of  them, 
and  never  to  molest  the  Chief  Officers,  such  as  the 
Master,  Mate,  Boatswain,  or  Carpenter,  or  any  Sea- 
men found  on  board  with  protections  granted  by 
Us,  pursuant  to  Act  of  Parliament  Given  under  Our 
hands  &c^ 


GOVERNOR   GREENE   TO   RICHARD   PARTRIDGE. 

Newport  Rhode  Island  Oct*".'  29'?  1743 
M:  Partridge  ; 

Yours  of  the  20*^  of  May  came  to  Hand  soon  after 
the  Arrival  of  Leonard  Lockman  Esqf  who  presented 
me  with  a  Patent  appointing  him  Clerk  of  the  Navy 
or  Naval  Office  of  this  Colony  which  I  laid  before 
the  General  Assembly  for  their  Opinion  who  ap- 
pointed a  Committee  to  consider  thereof  and  make 
Report  a  Copy  of  which  I  have  here  inclosed  whereby 
You'll  find  the  Sense  we  have  of  this  Affair^  and 
altho'  it  is  judg'd  that  we  have  a  Right  to  reject  said 
Lockman  not  only  by  Our  Charter  but  by  two  Acts 
of  Parliament  One  of  the  fourteenth  Year  of  Charles 
the  Second,  the  Other  of  the  seventh  and  Eighth  of 
King  William  yet  I  would  not  have  You  to  omitt 
inforcing  the  Petition  you  put  in  by  Council  learned 
in  the  Law  in  Order  to  have  this  Patent  revoked 
and  at  the  same  Time  to  represent  in  Behalf  of  this 
Colony  that  we  do  not  act  this  Part  with  any  other 
design  but  to  preserve  the  Priviledges  of  the  People 
and  We  hope  that  on  a  fair  Hearing  this  Refusal  of 

1  For  the  proceedings  of  the  Assembly,  see  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  70.     See  also  note 
to  letter  of  May  28,  1743. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       243 

Leonard  Lockman  Esq'  will  not  be  construed  as  an 
Act  of  Disobedience  to  his  Majesty  under  whome 
We  acknowledge  to  hold  the  most  valuable  Privi- 
ledges.  As  to  the  Controversy  relating  [to]  our 
eastern  Boundary  I  would  have  you  to  bring  the 
same  to  Trial  as  soon  as  possible  and  You  may  de- 
pend on  a  further  supply  of  money  which  the  Gen- 
eral Assembly  who  are  now  in  being  have  ordered 
Me  to  Assure  you  that  You  shall  have  in  a  short 
Time.  I  have  not  to  add  But  that  I  am  with  due 
Respects 

Your  assured  Friend 

W.  Gr[eene] 
To  Mr  Richard  Partridge 

Merch*  in  London 


WILL    STRAHAN  ^   TO    THOMAS    CORBETT. 

Doctors  Commons  i'.*  February  174I 
Sir 

I  have  received  yours  of  the  28*^  of  last  Month, 
with  a  Letter  inclosed  from  Leonard  Lockman  Esq"" 
Judge  of  the  Vice  Admiralty  Court  of  Rhode  Island, 
complaining  that  he  is  obstructed  in  the  execution 
of  his  Office  by  the  Governor  and  Company  of  the 
said  Island,^  and  upon  perusing  the  said  Letter  it 
appears  to  me  that  he  has  just  ground  of  Complaint 
in  the  several  particulars  therein  mentioned. 

i^.*  For  they  not  only  refuse  to  Swear  the  Deputy 

1  Appointed  advocate  to  the  Lords  of  Admiralty  in  1742. 

2  See  note  to  letter  of  May  28,  1743. 


244  Correspondence  of  the 

Judge  appointed  by  him  to  Officiate  in  his  absence, 
but  they  Nominated  one  of  their  own  Authority,  who 
Acted  by  their  Authority  til  M^  Lockman's  arrival  in 
Rhode  Island.  I  do  not  know  what  Authority  they 
could  have  to  Nominate  a  Deputy,  when  the  Princi- 
pal Judge  had  been  appointed  by  the  Lords  Comm'.^ 
of  the  Admiralty. 

2^  It  is  said  that  they  will  not  permit  the  Deputy 
of  Mf  George  Gibbs,  who  has  been  appointed  by  the 
Lords  Comm?  of  the  Admiralty  to  be  Marshal  for 
the  said  Colony,  but  notwithstanding  the  Appoint- 
ment of  a  New  Marshal,  they  continue  the  Deputy 
of  Ml;  Charles  Paxton,  the  late  Marshal.  This  is 
usurping  an  Authority  in  direct  opposition  to  the 
Lords  Comm?  of  the  Admiralty. 

3  He  complains  also,  that  they  will  not  permit  the 
Register  of  the  Court  to  take  the  Bonds  by  Law 
required  for  the  Commissions  of  Privateers,  but  the 
Secretary  takes  the  said  Bonds.  This  I  take  to  be 
very  irregular.  For  if  the  Judge  of  the  said  Vice 
Admiralty  Court  has  a  Special  Commission  to  grant 
Letters  of  Marque,  which  I  do  not  know  whether  he 
has  or  not,  the  Security  that  is  taken  from  the  Com- 
manders and  Owners  of  Privateers,  ought  to  be  taken 
by  the  said  Judge,  and  by  none  other  that  has  not  a 
proper  Authority. 

4  A  further  Complaint  is,  that  since  his  arrival  in 
the  said  Colony,  they  have  made  a  new  Law,^  to 
regulate  the  Fees  of  the  Officers  of  the  Court,  and 
have  reduced  them  to  so  low  a  degree,  that  the  Judge 

1  This  law  was  passed  in  the  October  session  of  1743.    See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  73. 
It  may  be  found  in  the  Digest  of  174s. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       245 

has  not  a  competent  Allowance  to  support  the  Dig- 
nity of  the  Office ;  As  to  this  Matter  of  Fees,  it  had 
been  proper  for  Mr  Lockman  to  have  sent  over  a 
Table  of  the  accustomed  Fees  received  in  the  said 
Court,  as  also  a  Table  of  the  Fees,  as  they  are  now 
reduced,  which  would  have  enabled  their  Lordships 
to  give  proper  Directions  therein. 

5  But  in  the  other  Matters  complained  of,  as  it  is 
evident  that  the  Judge  and  other  Officers  of  the  said 
Vice  Admiralty  Court  of  Rhode  Island,  have  been 
interrupted  in  the  execution  of  their  respective  Offices, 
to  which  they  have  been  properly  appointed  by  the 
Lords  Comm?  of  the  Admiralty,  it  must  be  sub- 
mitted to  their  Lordships,  whether  it  may  not  be 
proper  to  represent  the  Case  to  His  Majesty,  that 
he  may  give  the  proper  Directions  that  the  Judge 
and  Officers  of  the  said  Vice  Admiralty  Court  may 
not  be  obstructed  in  the  execution  of  their  respec- 
tive Offices,  all  which  is  humbly  submitted  to  their 
Lordships  by,  Sir 

Your  most  humble  Servant 

Will  :  Strahan 

Tho.  Corbett. 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    GOVERNOR    GREENE. 

London  12  Mo.  or  Febry  23?  174I. 
Gov^.  Green 

This  comes  to  acknowledge  the  rec*  of  thy  favour 

of  the  29*!"  Octy^  last  with  a  Copy  of  yl"  Assemblys 

Vote  or  Oppinion   relating  to  the  non   admittance 

1  See  page  242. 


246  Correspondence  of  the 

of  Leon'!  Lockman  for  Naval  officer,  w''^  I  am  very 
glad  off,  that  they  acted  so  prudently  and  w''?'  I  really 
think  will  be  attended  with  no  ill  Consequence  here, 
the  Court  and  Governm!  being  at  this  time  other- 
wise very  much  engaged ;  I  have  made  due  enquirey 
at  the  Court  end  of  the  Town  ab!  that  Affair;  and 
at  the  SecT  of  States  Office  upon  discoursing  w\''  two 
of  the  Chief  Clerks  there,  one  of  them  told  me  that 
the  People  (of  Rhode  Island)  were  in  the  right  of  it 
not  to  admitt  him  and  that  he  did  not  Expect  or 
beleive  they  would,  and  the  other  acquainted  me  that 
he  received  a  Letter  from  Lockman  acquainting  him 
of  his  being  refused  admittance,  that  he  expected  the 
matter  wo'!  be  decided  at  the  Council  office  and  that 
he  had  writ  to  Sharp  the  Solicitor  ab!  it,  but  this 
Gentl"  I  cant  beleive  will  take  any  Steps  ab*  it  till 
he  knows  who  will  Answer  the  Expence,  however  I 
shall  be  on  the  watch  and  when  ever  any  proceed- 
ings sho'!  be  made  ab!  it  I  shall  then  Prosecute  my 
Petition  w''.''  still  lyes  at  the  Council  office,  and  till 
then  it  is  Judged  most  prudent  not  to  take  any  Steps 
at  all  in  it,  nay  I  am  told  I  cannot,  till  there  be 
some  Complaint  exhibited  Regularly,  so  that  upon 
the  whole  we  need  be  in  no  pain  ab'  it. 

As  to  the  Controversy  relating  to  the  Boundary  we 
have  not  been  able  to  get  a  day  appointed  for  it  yet 
by  the  Lords  Committee,  but  as  we  are  now  next  on 
the  List  the  Clerk  of  the  Council  gives  me  some  Expec- 
tation of  having  an  appointm!  for  us  in  a  little  Time 
—  that  is  if  the  present  Exegency  of  the  Publick 
Affairs  of  the  Nation  do  not  too  much  interrupt. 

As  to  the  publick  News,  there  has  been  for  ab!  14 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        247 

Days  past  a  ffrench  ffleet  from  Brest  of  22  Men  of 
War  hovering  ab*  our  Coast  in  the  Channel  and  now 
14  Sail  of  them  are  at  Anchor  under  Dungeness  and 
the  rest  gone  over  to  Dunkirk  and  the  fflemish  Coast, 
what  their  Design  is  we  know  not  yet,  it  was  appre- 
hended an  Invasion  was  intended  in  favour  of  the 
Pretender's  Eldest  Son,  but  now  that  report  gains 
but  little  Credit,  and  they  think  the  Design  is  ag^.' 
Newport  and  some  other  Sea  port  Town  in  Flan- 
ders belonging  to  the  Queen  of  Hungary, 

Adm!  Norris  with  a  Fleet  of  ab!  22  Stout  Men  of 
War  are  now  riding  in  the  Downs  and  whether  if 
the  Wind  proves  ffavourable  (w'^!'  at  present  it  does 
not)  he  will  attack  them  or  not  is  uncertain,  —  The 
Case  is  if  the  English  strike  the  first  blow  before 
they  are  attacked  our  Allies  the  Dutch  are  not  under 
obligation  to  joyn  us  and  take  part  in  the  War,  w*".^ 
I  beleive  make's  our  Nation  not  so  forward  as  they 
wo^  otherwise  be  in  beginning  the  War:^  thou  willt 
see  by  the  prints  herewith  that  the  King  has  had 
intelligence  ab*  the  motion  and  intencion  of  the  Pre- 
tend" Son,  and  that  the  Parliam!  have  addressed  him 
there  upon  but  I  hope  we  have  not  much  to  fear  ab! 
him,  for  the  rest  I  refer  to  the  prints  here  with  sent 
and  am 

Thy  Friend 

RD  P. 

P.  S.  No  Action  yet  happened  betw°  Adm!  Mat- 
thew's and  the  ffrench  and  Span  ffleet  in  the  Medi- 
terranian 

1  In  1 744  France  declared  war  against  England,  and  furnished  a  fleet  for  the  Young 
Pretender.    This  was  destroyed  by  a  storm. 


248  Correspondence  of  the 

Ditto.  28'." 

Since  the  foregoing  the  apprehension  ab*  an  In- 
tended Invasion  from  the  French  in  favour  of  the 
Pretend'^  Eldest  Son  seems  to  be  certain  as  thou 
willt  see  by  the  inclosed  prints,  but  as  due  prepara- 
tion is  making  in  divers  parts  of  this  Kingdom  its 
expected  they  will  be  defeated,  6000  of  the  Dutch 
fforces  are  soon  expected  over  hither  according  to 
Stipulasion ;  Sy  John  Norris  w'!"  a  stout  ffleet  of  Men 
of  War  are  still  in  the  Downs  with  whom  the  ffrench 
cannot  pretend  to  Engage.  He  has  lately  been  out 
after  them,  but  a  violent  Storm  arriving  and  the 
wind  taking  him  short  again  is  returned,  and  the 
ffrench  fled  away ;  Our  ffleet  under  the  Command 
of  Adm!  Matthews  they  say  has  gain'd  a  Victory 
over  the  French  and  Spanish  ffleet  at  Toulon^  but 
the  Particulars  of  that  Engagem!  we  know  not  yet. 
War  is  not  proclaimed  ag!  France  but  its  expected  in 
a  Short  Time  ;  for  the  rest  I  refer  to  the  inclosed 
prints  and  remain 

Thy  Assured  Friend 

R?  Partridge 

iV  month  the  9!" 

Since  I  writt  the  foregoing  w"^  went  via  Bristol  the 
most  p!  of  the  Brest  Squadron  of  Men  of  War  men- 
tiond  therein  have  been  (as  far  as  I  can  learn)  dis- 
persed not  without  damage  in  the  very  great  Storm 
that  happend  on  the  25  ult.  and  therein  also  many 

1  On  February  9  the  Spanish  fleet  left  the  harbor  of  Toulon,  and  engaged  the 
English  blockading  fleet.  A  feud  between  Admiral  Matthews  and  Vice-Admiral  Les- 
tock  prevented  effective  cooperation.  Much  discredit  was  brought  upon  the  English 
fleet.  Admiral  Matthews  was  removed  from  the  service,  and  several  captains  of  ships 
were  cashiered. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        249 

of  their  Transports  w*^  Soldiers  on  board  driven  on 
Shoar  abo*  Dunkirk  Road  and  the  Rest  of  their 
fforces  there  in  other  Ships  disimbarked,  and  on  con- 
sideration of  our  preparations  here  and  that  there  are 
not  such  disturbances  and  intestine  Quarrels  amongst 
us  as  they  imagined,  I  am  of  opinion  the  French  will 
intirely  give  over  the  Attempt,  especally  too  as  the 
Toulon  combined  Fleet  has  been  beat  by  Admiral 
Mathews  in  the  Mediteranean  w^^  seems  to  gain  gen^ 
credit  here,  alltho  there  be  no  Express  arriv'd  yet  from 
that  Admiral  (w*=^  is  hourly  expected  w*'*  the  perticu- 
lars),  this  I  say  must  undoubtedly  strike  such  a  damp 
upon  them  as  that  they  will  hardly  care,  (notwith- 
standing all  their  Bustle)  to  engage  in  a  gen^  War 
w^*"  us,  But  content  themselves  w""  declaring  That 
what  they  have  been  doing  hitherto  against  us,  was 
only  as  Auxiliaries  to  the  Crown  of  Spain,  yet  tho' 
such  hints  as  these  are  thrown  out,  our  King  and 
Ministry  will  hardly  rely  on  those  conjectures  but 
continue  the  preparations  for  defence.  They  say  that 
the  Expence  to  the  French  in  fitting  out  their  Tou- 
lon Fleet  has  cost  them  as  much  as  the  maintaining 
an  Army  of  10,000  Men  w"^  would  do  for  a  Twelve- 
month, and  if  Beaten  not  easily  repaired.  The  design 
of  this  Fleet  together  with  9  some  say  14  Spanish  Men 
of  War  that  joynd  them  was  destined  on  a  Voyage  to 
Antibes^  further  up  in  the  Straits  w*''  a  Supply  of 
Forces  and  Amunition  for  the  Spanish  Army  there- 
abouts under  the  Command  of  Count  Gages  and  Don 
Philip  the  King  of  Spains  younger  Son  who  have 
been  for  a  Consid^J^  time  upon  an  Undertaking  for 

1  A  port  of  southern  France. 


250  Correspondence  of  the 

recovering  some  of  the  Queen  of  Hungarys  Do- 
minions from  her  in  Italy,  for  the  rest  I  refer  to  the 
prints  inclosed  and  remain 

Thy  assured  ffr*! 

RP  Partridge 

I  send  thee  by  this  Ship  a  Packet  with  news  Papers 
to  And'  Oliver  my  Correspond'  to  forward,  and  in  it 
also  our  printed  case  Relating  to  the  Boundarys. 

To  WiLL^  Green  Esqf 

Governour  and  Command''  in  chief  of  The  Col- 
ony of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Planta- 
tions 


GOVERNOR  GREENE  TO  THE  DUKE  OF  NEWCASTLE.^ 

Newport  Rhode  Island  March  \ft  174I. 
My  Lord 

In  obediance  to  the  Directions  of  their  Excel- 
lencies the  late  Lords  Justices  to  me  to  procure  and 
Send  the  proceedings  of  the  court  of  Admiralty  here 
upon  the  trial  of  a  bark  of  Curraco  Called  La  Ger- 
truyda  Cap!  Samuel  Baal  Commander  Taken  near 
Rio  de  la  Hache  by  three  English  Privateers  Com- 
manded by  Robert  Flowers,  John  Rows,  and  William 
Wilkinson  and  Condemned  in  the  Court  of  Admi- 
ralty in  this  Colony,  and  divided  Among  the  Captors 
(which  M'  Hop  Minister  From  the  States  Gen"  of  the 
United  provinces  Complains  of  as  Contrary  to  the 
Treaties  Subsisting  Between  his  Majestic  And  the 

1  Printed  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  79.    See  letter  of  July  14,  1743. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       2  5 1 

States)  together  with  a  full  Account  of  the  Reasons 
which  Induced  the  Said  court  to  proceed  to  the  Con- 
demnation of  her.  I  Have  Procured  the  Inclosed 
Authentick  Copy  of  the  trial  of  the  s*^  bark  from  the 
Records  of  the  Admiralty  Court  and  a  Committee 
of  the  General  Assembly  of  this  Colony  has  been 
appointed  to  Enquire  of  the  Late  Deputy  Judge  (who 
is  now  a  prisoner  for  Debt)  what  Reasons  he  had  to 
Induce  him  to  proceed  to  the  Condemnation  of  s"^ 
Bark,  who  Replied,  that  he  had  no  other  Reasons  to 
render  but  those  he  had  Assigned,  in  the  body  of  his 
Decree.  So  that  I  Am  not  Able  to  give  Your  Grace 
Any  further  Account  but  Humbly  Hope  that  as  this 
court  which  has  the  Sole  Cognizance  of  prizes  Is 
wholly  Independent,  of  Any  Authority  In  this  Col- 
ony, that  the  Governour  and  Company  will  never  be 
thought  Liable  to  Censure  on  account  of  Any  Judg- 
ment in  that  Court  that  may  be  thought  owing  to 
the  Mistakes  or  Passions,  of  An  Ignorant  or  Indi- 
gent Person ;  that  without  their  Consent  or  Kno- 
ledge  may  be  Deputed,  to  Judge  And  Determine 
Singly  in  Matters  of  Such  high  and  Publick  Con- 
cernment 

I  Am  with  Great  Respect  My  Lord 
Your  Graces  Most  Humble  and  Most  obediant 
Servant 

W.  Greene 

Endorsed  :  Letter  to  his  Grace  the  Duke  of  New- 
castle. In  Answer  to  a  Letter  from  Home  about 
prizes  condemned  by  Judge  Pemberton. 


252  Correspondence  of  the 

RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO   GOVERNOR   GREENE. 

London  i'?  Month  29V  1744 
Goif.  Green 

I  have  writ  thee  lately  via  Topsham,  Bristol,  and 
Liverpool  and  sent  thee  Copy  of  the  ffrench  Kings 
Declaration  of  War  ag*.*  us  and  now  this  incloses  one 
of  them  also,  it  was  Expected  War  wo*?  have  been 
proclaimed  here  ag^.'  them  by  this  time,  but  they  say 
now  it  will  not  be  done  till  next  week  when  the  Par- 
liam!  meets  again  they  having  Adjournd  themselves 
to  the  3''.^  of  next  Month,  We  are  fearfull  that  several 
of  our  homeward  bound  Ships  that  have  had  no 
Notice  of  the  War  will  be  snappd  up,  but  I  suppose 
we  have  several  Men  of  War  out  upon  the  Cruise 
who  have  sent  in  some  ffrench  Ships  they  have  taken 
already. 

The  Court  have  been  so  much  taken  up  of  late 
with  State  Affairs  and  matters  of  Importance  that 
we  have  had  very  few  Committees  of  the  Council 
since  December  last  and  consequently  we  have  not 
been  able  to  get  a  Day  appointed  yet  for  the  hearing 
of  our  Cause  of  the  Boundarys,  and  as  to  the  Affairs 
of  Lockman  I  beleive  that  is  pretty  well  at  an  end 
for  I  can't  think  any  Person  will  stir  in  it  for  him 
here,  it  lyes  as  it  were  Dormant  at  present  however, 
two  Days  hence  War  will  be  proclaimed  here  ag'' 
ffrance,  I  have  sent  a  Packett  for  thee  per  this  Con- 
vey^ to  my  ffr^  And"'  Oliver  of  Boston  with  sundry 
more  News  Papers  to  be  forwarded  by  a  private 
hand  of  which  I  Desire  thy  acceptance  from 

Thy  Assured  Friend 

R°  Partridge 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       253 

Our  Men  of  War  have  already  taken  several  ff  rench 
prizes 

To  Governour  Green. 


THE   DUKE   OF   NEWCASTLE   TO   THE   GOVERNOR   AND   COM- 
PANY  OF   RHODE   ISLAND. 

Whitehall,  April  26*?  1744. 
Gentlemen^ 

You  will  receive,  at  the  same  Time  with  this  Let- 
ter, one  from  the  Commissioners,^  who  His  Majesty 
has  been  pleased  to  appoint  for  Distributing  the 
Moiety  of  the  Prizes,  taken  from  the  Spaniards, 
between  the  lo^?*  Day  of  July  1739,  and  the  I9'^ 
October,  then  following,  by  any  of  his  Majesty's 
Ships  of  War,  Desiring,  That  You  would  take  Care, 
That  publick  Notice  be  given  in  all  Parts  under  Your 
Jurisdiction,  to  the  Agents  for  the  Captors  of  all 
such  Prizes,  taken  as  aforesaid,  and  to  all  other  Per- 
sons, whom  It  may  concern,  immediately  to  furnish 
the  said  Commissioners  with  Authentick  Accounts 
of  all  Transactions  relating  to  the  said  Prizes ;  and 
also  to  pay  to  the  said  Commissioners  the  full  Moiety 
of  Their  respective  Accounts,  in  order  to  enable 
Them  to  carry  into  Execution  His  Majesty's  most 
gracious  Intentions  towards  Such  of  His  Subjects, 
as  have  suffered  by  the  unjust  Seizures,  and  depre- 
dations of  the  Spaniards.  I  refer  You  to  the  Letter, 
which  You  will  receive  from  the  Commissioners,  for 

1  See  letter  of  May  i8,  1744. 


254  Correspondence  of  the 

a  more  particular  Explanation  of  what  may  be  de- 
sired to  be  done  on  Your  Part  in  this  Matter ;  And 
am  to  signify  to  You  His  Majesty's  Pleasure,  That 
You  should  do  every  Thing  in  Your  Power,  to  en- 
able Them,  in  the  most  effectual  Manner,  to  Execute 
Their  Commission. 
I  am.  Gentlemen, 

Your  most  obedient  humble  Servant 

HoLLES  Newcastle 

Governor,  and  Company  of  Rhode-Island. 


RICHARD    PARTRmGE   TO   GOVERNOR   GREENE, 

London.  3d  Month  or  May  the  8'!"  1744. 
Gov''.   Green 

I  have  already  Wrote  thee  of  28*.''  Ult  by  James 
Perrin  who  is  now  at  Portsm°  going  Passenger  with 
Cap*  Phillips  and  by  whom  I  intend  this,  which 
serves  to  bring  thee  a  Copy  of  the  BilPfor  Suppress- 
ing in  great  measure  Paper  Currency  in  the  Plant*.* 
hinted  at  in  my  last ;  it  was  presented  and  read  in 
the  House  the  4*!'  Ins!  but  as  this  Sessions  certainly 
break  up  the  12*!*  Ins!  nothing  further  is  likely  to  be 
done  in  it  till  the  Parliam!  meets  again  in  Nov!  next, 
and  then  It's  expected  the  promoters  of  this  Bill  will 
Vigerously  push  for  the  geting  it  pass'd. 

As  for  that  Blank  I  have  marked  thus  *  it  is  Sup- 
posed will  be  filled  with  these  or  the  like  Words  viz 
(Gov!"  Council  and  Assembly). 

1  Not  in  the  archives. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        255 

I  wo^  also  remark  that  the  last  Clause  in  the  Bill 
is  a  very  Severe  one,  intrenching  on  the  Priviledges 
of  our  Charter  with  a  Witness,  and  indeed  I  make 
no  doubt  at  all  but  its  levell'd  principally  at  it, 

Upon  the  whole  whatever  Instructions  the  Colony 
shall  think  fit  to  send  me  for  Opposing  the  Bill  I 
hope  they  will  be  Expeditious  therein  so  as  to  be 
here  against  the  next  Sessions  of  Parliam!  which  will 
be  in  ab'  6  mo?  time  together  with  Suitable  Remit- 
tances, for  its  pitty  the  Cause  sho?  be  Starved,  It 
being  now  a  Considerable  time  since  I  have  received 
any  thing  from  Rhode  Island,^  We  have  not  been 
able  yet  to  bring  the  Cause  of  our  Boundary  to  a 
Hearing  by  all  we  co^  do,  and  nothing  is  yet  pro- 
ceeded on  in  the  Affair  of  Majy  Lockman  how  soon 
it  may  be  Stirred  up  I  know  not, 

Here  is  also  inclosed  a  Copy  of  a  Scheme  of  Judge 
Auchmutys  ^  ab!  an  Expedition  ag^.'  Cape  Britton  w"'' 
I  hear  he  has  laid  before  some  in  the  Ministry,  but 
I  don't  understand  it  is  as  yet  much  given  into, 
they  having  at  present  a  great  many  other  Affa'^f  of 
Importance  on  their  hands  already ;  what  time  may 
produce  with  respect  to  the  Proposed  Expedition 
I  know  not,  but  tho!  the  sending  thee  some  AccoV 


1  This  appeal  was  not  in  vain.  The  Assembly  met  in  October,  provided  for  a 
remission  to  Partridge  of  £550  by  a  special  emission  of  £900  in  bills  of  credit,  and 
further  ordered  a  letter  of  instructions  to  be  prepared  and  sent  to  him.  See  Col.  Rec. 
of  R.  /.,  V.  97,  and  the  Assembly's  letter,  which  was  approved  November  3,  1744,  on 
p.  287. 

2  Robert  Auchmuty  was  appointed  judge  of  vice-admiralty  at  Boston  in  1733.  In 
1 741  he  was  sent  to  England  as  agent  for  Massachusetts,  and  there  published  a  pam- 
phlet on  The  Importance  of  Cape  Bretoti  to  the  British  Nation,  and  a  Plan  for  Tak- 
ing the  Place.     He  died  at  Boston  in  1750. 


256  Correspondence  of  the 

thereof  as  I  met  with  it  here  might  not  be  unaccept- 
able from 

Thy  Assured  Friend 

R:  Partridge 

II  d? 

The  foregoing  is  Copy  of  mine  to  Cap*  Phillips 
this  now  comes  by  a  Sloop  bound  for  Boston  w*"^ 
probably  may  meet  with  the  same  convoy  at  Portsm? 

herewith  amongst  the  prints  I  send  thee  a  small 
Book  wrote  formerly  by  Jer.  Dummer  in  defence  of 
the  Charter  Governm*^  w''^  I  have  thought  might  be 
very  proper  to  have  reprinted  with  the  amendm'*  I 
have  made  to  it  in  pa  18  and  27  as  thou  willt  see. 
in  order  to  disperse  amongst  the  Members  of  Par- 
liam*  at  their  next  Sessions  w*^  might  be  of  Service, 
but  I  submit  it  to  the  Judgm*  of  yol"  Council  and 
Assembly  and  shall  wait  their  order  for  doing  it  or 
not  —  or  w^hether  they  will  make  any  further  addi- 
tions to  it : 

from  Thine  as  before 

R?  Partridge 

To  Governour  Green 


THE    COMMISSIONERS    FOR    DISTRIBUTING    PRIZES    TO    THE 
GOVERNOR    AND    COMPANY    OF    RHODE    ISLAND.^ 

His  Majesty  having  been  pleased  by  His   Royal 
Letters  Patent  bearing  date  the  4'!'  day  of  February 

1  See  letter  of  April  26,  1 744. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       257 

last,  To  Constitute  and  appoint  Us  His  Commis- 
sioners for  Distributing  the  Moiety  of  the  Prizes 
taken  from  the  Spaniards  on  or  between  the  IO*^  day 
of  July  1 739  and  the  19*  of  October  then  following  by 
any  of  His  Majesty's  Ships  of  War:  And  the  better 
to  Enable  Us  to  execute  the  Powers  and  Authorities 
granted  by  His  said  Commission  has  been  pleased 
thereby  to  Require  and  Command  the  several  Agents 
for  the  Captors  and  all  other  Persons  whom  it  may 
concern,  to  Observe  and  follow  such  Directions  from 
time  to  time  as  they  shall  receive  from  Us :  and  to 
be  Aiding  and  assisting  unto  Us,  as  they  will  answer 
the  contrary  at  their  Peril:  In  order  therefore  the 
more  effectually  to  carry  into  Execution  His  Ma- 
jesty's most  gracious  intentions  towards  such  of  His 
subjects  as  have  suffered  by  the  unjust  Seizures  and 
Depredations  of  the  Spaniards  within  the  respective 
times  and  limitations  expressed  in  the  said  Commis- 
sion We  find  it  highly  expedient  That  the  Agents 
for  the  Captors  of  all  such  Prizes  taken  as  aforesaid 
should  immediately  furnish  Us  with  Authentick  ac- 
counts of  all  transactions  relating  to  the  said  Prizes, 
and  Pay  Us  the  full  Moiety  of  their  respective 
accounts:  And  to  that  purpose  We  have  caused 
Publick  Notice  to  be  given  here,  in  the  London  Ga- 
zette :  One  of  which  Gazettes  We  send  inclosed  herein : 
And  also  a  Letter  from  His  Grace  the  Duke  of  New- 
castle on  the  same  subject ;  whereto  We  crave  leave 
to  referr  Your  Excellency.  And  to  the  end  That 
None  may  plead  Ignorance  thereof  We  are  now  to 
Desire  Your  Excellency  will  cause  the  like  Notice 
to  be  given  in  all  such  parts  of  Your  Jurisdiction, 


258  Correspondence  of  the 

and  in  such  manner  as  has  been,  or  is  now  custom- 
ary to  publish  things  of  the  Hke  Nature:    And  to 
Use  all  such  other  means  of  making  the  same  known 
as  to  Your  Excellency  may  seem  necessary 
We  are  with  due  Respect 

Your  Excellency's  most  humble  Serv*.^ 
London  iS*  May  1744  W^   Baker 

Jn?  Hyde 
RobT  Jackson 
John  Casamayor 
EzE  Hall 
Will'^  Faukener 

To  the  Governor  and  Company  of  His  Majesty's 
Colony  of  Rhode  Island,  and  Providence  Plan- 
tation in  New  England,  in  America. 


GOVERNOR   CLINTON^   TO    GOVERNOR   GREENE. 

New  York  281'  May  1744 
Sir 

By  the  last  post  I  receiv'd  a  letter  fron  Govf  Shir- 
ley dated  I3*^  inst  advising  that  he  had  just  time 
before  the  departure  of  the  Messenger  to  inform  me 
that  late  the  night  before  a  Vessell  arriv'd  at  Boston 
from  Glascow  which  brought  a  printed  Copy  of  the 

1  George  Clinton  was  the  second  son  of  Francis,  Earl  of  Lincoln.  He  entered  the 
navy,  and  was,  in  1732,  appointed  governor  of  Newfoundland  and  commodore  of  the 
squadron  stationed  there.  In  1737  he  was  made  commodore  of  the  Mediterranean 
fleet,  and  in  1741  was  commissioned  governor  of  New  York.  He  held  the  office  until 
1753,  and  retired  with  the  sum  of  £cSo,ooo,  which  it  was  alleged  he  accumulated  while 
in  that  position.  On  his  return  to  England,  with  the  rank  of  admiral,  he  was  made 
governor  of  Greenwich  Hospital.     He  died  in  1761. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       259 

French  King's  Declaration  of  War  against  the  Crown 
of  Great  Britain,  and  a  written  Copy  of  His  Majesty's 
Declaration  of  War  against  the  Crown  of  France 
dated  the  last  day  of  March  ^  which  the  Master  of 
the  Glascow  Vessell  took  from  a  printed  Copy  on 
Board  a  Vessell  which  he  met  at  Sea,  both  which 
Declaration  he  made  no  doubt  were  authentick,  and 
as  in  case  of  such  a  Rupture  between  the  two  Crowns, 
this  or  some  of  the  neighbouring  Provinces  on  the 
Continent  may  possibly  be  invaded,  I  shall  think  it 
my  duty  as  far  as  possible  to  guard  ag*  any  Surprize 
and  not  only  defend  this  Province  to  the  utmost  of 
my  power ;  but  lend  all  the  assistance  I  am  able  to 
others,  which  as  I  pursuade  my  self  are  also  your 
Sentiments,  I  doubt  not  but  you  will  readily  give  the 
necessary  Orders  to  the  People  under  Your  Govern- 
ment especially  those  bordering  on  this  Province  to 
hold  themselves  in  readiness  to  march  to  our  Assist- 
ance on  the  first  notice  of  the  approach  of  an  Enemy, 
and  you  may  be  assured  I  shall  make  the  like  Dis- 
position for  the  Succour  of  your  Colony  I  am  sir 
Your  most  Obedient  Humble  servant 

G  Clinton. 


SECRETARY    WILLARD    TO    GOVERNOR    GREENE.^ 

Province  of  the  Mass^  Bay  Boston  June  5.  1744 
Sir 

This  Court  being  apprehensive  that  nothing  will 

more  contribute  to  the  Success  of  the  War  in  these 

1  A  copy  of  the  declaration  of  war  against  France  was  sent  to  Rhode  Island  by  the 
Duke  of  Newcastle  with  a  letter,  dated  March  31,  1744.     See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  80. 

2  Printed  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  93. 


26o  Correspondence  of  the 

parts  than  that  the  Several  Northern  Governments 
in  America  Shall  enter  into  an  Agreement  with  one 
another,  for  their  mutual  Assistance  and  for  carry- 
ing on  the  War  in  the  most  effect!  Manner. 

We  have  accordingly  chosen  and  appointed  five 
Commissioners  to  meet  at  Albany  the  Twelfth  of 
this  Month  (Where  the  Governour  of  New  York 
has  appointed  to  meet  with  the  Six  Nations)  to  treat 
with  Commission?  from  the  other  Governm*f  in  New 
England,  and  agree  on  Such  Measures  as  may  be 
thought  equal  and  necessary  for  their  mutual  Safety 
and  Defence  and  for  annoying  their  Enemies ;  Such 
Agreement  to  be  binding  on  the  respective  Govern- 
ments. 

We  therefore  desire  your  Honour,  That  Commis- 
sioners may  be  appointed  by  your  Government  with 
the  Same  full  Power  to  transact  these  import!  Affairs 
at  the  Time  and  Place  afores?  ^  We  pray  your  Ex- 
cuse for  not  giving  you  longer  Notice  of  this  Busi- 
ness ;  The  Meeting  of  the  Six  Nations  of  Indians  at 
Albany  on  the  Day  above  mentioned  gives  us  Such 
an  Opportunity  of  Strengthening  our  Interest  which 
ought  not  to  be  lost,  and  we  are  but  just  now  Ap- 
prised of  it. 

Your  Honours  most  obedient  Servants 

In  the  Name  and  by  Order  of  the  G!  and  Gen' 
Court  of  said  Province 

JosiAH  WiLLARD  Secretary 

The  Hon''.'^  William  Green  Esq*" 

1  No  commissioners  were  sent  from  Rhode  Island.     See  letter  of  June  8,  1744. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       261 


GOVERNOR  GREENE  TO  GOVERNOR  LAW.^ 

Newport  7'"  June  1744 
His  Majesty's  Declaration  of  War  against  the 
French  King  was  read  here  with  the  usual  Formal- 
ity on  Monday  last,  which  obliges  me  now  forth- 
with to  send  out  our  Colony  Sloop  for  the  Security 
of  the  Coast,  and  thereupon  the  General  Assembly 
at  their  last  Sessions  in  May  last  Month  pass'd  a 
Vote  desiring  Me  to  write  to  Your  Honour,  and 
requesting  That  Your  Colony  Sloop  may  be  fitted 
out,  and  ordered  to  join  Ours  in  their  cruising  upon 
this  Coast.^  The  Course  that  is  intended  for  our 
Sloop  will  be  from  Long  Island  to  Martha's  Vine- 
yard and  so  backwards  and  forwards  to  guard  both 
Sounds,  And  I  do  assure  Your  Honour  That  We 
shall  be  always  ready  here  to  lend  Your  Government 
what  Assistance  is  in  our  Power  upon  any  Invasion 
or  Attack  that  shall  be  made  upon  You.  For  though 
the  Governments  are  distinct,  Yet  our  Common  In- 
terest is  inseperable,  and  your  Sloop  being  joined 
with  Ours  will  be  a  Terror  to  any  small  Privateer, 
and  thereby  a  greater  Safeguard  to  both  our  Gov- 
ernments.   I  should  be  glad  to  have  your  Honour's 

1  Jonathan  Law  was  bom  in  Milford,  graduated  from  Harvard  in  1795,  ^'^'^  acquired 
great  local  reputation  as  a  lawyer.  In  1725  he  was  elected  chief  justice  and  deputy- 
governor  of  Connecticut,  and  held  these  offices  until  chosen  governor,  to  succeed  Jo- 
seph Talcott,  in  1741.  He  held  that  office  almost  continuously  until  his  death,  in 
1750. 

2  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  88,  for  the  vote  of  the  Assembly. 


262  Correspondence  of  the 

Sentiments  in  this  Affair*  being  with  great  Respect 
Hon^!<^  Sf 

Your  most  obedient  Humble  Serv* 

W.  G. 

To  the  Hon^!*  Jonathan  Law  Esq 

Governour  and  Comm!:  in  Chief  in  and  over  his 
Majesty's  Colony  of  Connecticut 


GOVERNOR  GREENE  TO  GOVERNOR  SHIRLEY. 

Newport  8*  June  1744. 

Your  Excel7'^  Letter^  came  Safe  to  Me  last  Night 
advising  about  the  Meeting  of  the  Commissioners  of 
the  several  Governments  at  Albany  the  Twelfth  of 
this  Month,  and  for  the  appointing  Commissioners 
on  the  Part  of  this  Government  to  be  at  the  afore- 
said Treaty. 

I  have  now  to  acquaint  Your  Exce^7,  That  our 
General  Assembly  is  adjourn 'd  to  August  next,  and 
not  sufficient  Time  to  call  Them  together  to  make 
any  Appointment  for  the  Purpose  aforesaid  which 
renders  it  incapable  for  any  Thing  to  be  done  on 
the  Part  of  our  Government, 

W.  Greene 
To  His  Excels  W^  Shirley  Esq 

Cap!  General  and  Commander-in-Chief  in  and 
over   his   Majesty's   Province   of   the   Massa- 
chusets  Bay 
Boston 

1  See  letter  of  June  19, 1744.  *  See  letter  of  June  5, 1744. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       263 

GOVERNOR   SHIRLEY   TO   GOVERNOR   GREENE. 

Boston  June  16.  1744 

I  think  it  proper  to  acquaint  your  Honour  with 
what  the  General  Court  of  this  Province  have  done 
for  the  raising  Soldiers  to  reinforce  the  Garison  at 
Annapolis  Royal  (as  you  will  find  by  the  inclosed 
Vote)^  and  also  at  the  desire  of  said  Court  to  inform 
you  of  the  weak  State  of  the  Garison  there,  as  I  have 
received  the  Acco*f  of  it  from  Major  Mascareen  the 
Commander  in  chief  of  the  said  Garison  (as  you  will 
see  by  the  inclosed  Copy  of  his  Letter^)  that  so  your 
Government  may  afford  a  proportionable  Aid  of  Men 
for  the  said  Garison  if  they  shall  judge  it  reasonable 
and  proper  The  Preservation  of  that  Fortress  being 
of  great  Importance  to  his  Majesty's  Service  and  In- 
terest in  these  parts  of  America  and  more  especially 
to  the  Navigation  of  these  Colonies. 

I  am  Your  Honours  most  obedient  humble  Servant 

W  Shirley. 

The  Hon^}^  William  Green  Esq. 


VOTE  OF  THE  GENERAL  COURT  OF  MASSACHUSETTS. 3 

Province  of  the  Massachusetts  Bay 
In  the  House  of  Representatives  June  12'!'  1744 

Whereas  the  Preservation  of  His  Majesty's  For- 
tress at  Annapolis  Royall  is  an  Affair  of  Great  Im- 
portance to  the  Crown  as  well  as  to  the  respective 

1  See  the  following  document. 

2  Major  Mascarene's  letter  is  given  on  p.  265. 

3  Enclosed  in  Shirley's  letter  of  June  16. 


264  Correspondence  of  the 

Governments  in  New  England  and  that  Until  the 
arrival  of  some  Force  there  from  Great  Britain  It 
may  be  for  His  Majestys  service  to  Afford  them 
some  immediate  ReHef, 

Therefore  Voted  that  His  Excellency  the  Captain 
General  be  desired  to  give  Orders  for  raising  two 
Independant  Companys  of  Volunteers  Consisting  of 
Sixty  men  each  exclusive  of  Ofificers  to  be  sent  to 
that  Fortress  as  soon  as  may  be  at  the  Expence  of 
this  Province  and  for  Encouragement  to  good  and 
effective  men  to  Enlist  in  this  Service ;  that  there 
be  and  hereby  is  granted  to  be  paid  out  of  the  Pro- 
vince Treasury  to  each  Able  Bodied  man  that  shall 
Enlist  Twenty  Pounds  old  tenor  or  other  Bills  of 
Credit  Equivalent  and  that  they  be  freed  from  all 
Ordinary  Impresses  in  this  province  three  Years 
after  their  Return  and  that  His  Excellency  the  Gov- 
ernour  be  desired  to  Acquaint  the  Neighbouring 
Governments  with  the  State  of  that  Fortress  that 
they  may  Afford  a  reasonable  Aid  of  men  for  the 
aforesaid  Purpose  and  inasmuch  as  the  said  Forces  are 
neither  to  be  Subsisted  nor  paid  by  this  Province 
during  their  Continuance  there  that  His  Excellency 
be  further  desired  to  Use  His  good  Offices  with  the 
Commander  of  that  Fortress  in  Obtaining  Pay  and 
Subsistance  for  the  Said  Companys  from  the  Crown 
until  they  return  Home     Sent  up  for  Concurrence 

Hushing  Spkf 

In  Council  June  12'f'  1744 

Read  and  Concur'd  J  Willard  Secretary 

Consented  to  W  Shirley 

Copy  Examined  by  J.  Willard  Secretary. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       265 

MAJOR  MASCARENE^  TO  GOVERNOR  SHIRLEY.^ 

Sir. 

I  have  receiv'd  by  M*"  Bastide^  the  Honour  of 
yours  of  the  8'^  Instant  and  had  the  pleasure  to  see 
soon  after  Capt"  Tyng  in  the  Province  Snow ;  the 
Countenance  she  Affords  us  here  is  of  no  small  Con- 
sequence to  the  Publick  Service  especially  at  this 
Juncture.  We  had  notice  a  few  days  ago  by  a  pas- 
senger that  came  to  some  of  the  Settlements  at  the 
upper  End  of  Our  Bay  from  Lewisbourg  that  they 
had  an  Account  at  that  Place  of  the  War  being  de- 
clared between  Great  Britain  and  France  which  has 
Caused  no  small  uneasiness  to  a  number  of  People 
who  live  out  of  Our  Fort  and  the  Day  before  the 
Snow  came  a  rumour  being  spread  that  a  French 
Officer  with  a  great  Number  of  Indians  and  People 
from  Cape  Breton  were  up  our  River  at  a  small  Dis- 
tance from  this  place,  the  Panick  Seized  the  Women 
and  Children  whom  I  was  Obliged  to  receive  into 
the  Garrison,  this  report  however  proved  without 
Foundation.  There  is  another  more  probable  that  at 
Lewisbourg  they  are  fitting  out  seven  Privateers  too 
[two]  already  out  to  Cruise  on  the  Eastern  Coast  of 
this  Government,  in  Order  to  draw  Provisions  from 
Our  Settlements  of  French  Inhabitants  at  the  upper 
End  of  Our  Bay  and  Secure  them  from  the  Sloop 

1  John  Paul  Mascarene,  a  native  of  Languedoc,  was  made  lieutenant-governor  of 
Nova  Scotia  in  1740,  and  held  the  office  until  July,  1749,  when  he  was  succeeded  by 
Governor  Cornwallis,  of  whose  council  Mascarene  became  a  member.  He  moved  to 
Boston  in  1750,  and  died  there  ten  years  later.    A'.  Y.  Col.  Doc,  VI.  482. 

2  Enclosed  in  Shirley's  letter  of  June  16,  1744. 

8  John  Bastide  was  the  royal  engineer  stationed  at  Annapolis. 


266  Correspondence  of  the 

the  man  of  war  left  at  Canso,  which  I  am  afraid  will 
prove  too  weak  to  resist  the  French/ 

The  S*  John  River  Indians  sent  four  delagates 
here  about  a  fortnight  ago  I  inclose  the  purport  of 
their  Conference  I  had  with  them  could  I  keep  them 
in  peace  the  French  of  Cape  Breton  would  have 
much  less  influence  on  Our  Inhabitants.  It  is  prob- 
able that  if  they  have  any  Design  on  us  they  will 
Visit  us  soon  whilst  they  know  Our  works  are  in 
bad  repair  and  Our  Garrison  weak.  I  hope  however 
they  will  not  forgett  us  at  Home  and  that  the  Pro- 
vince of  the  massachusetts  being  so  much  Interested 
in  the  preservation  of  this  Countrey,  Your  Excellency 
will  give  us  the  Countenance  and  Assistance  we  may 
at  this  time  Require.  Capt  Tyng  making  but  a  short 
Stay  I  am  Obliged  to  Write  in  haste  which  I  hope 
you  will  Excuse.  I  am  with  great  Esteem  and  Re- 
spect, Sir 

Your  most  humble  and  most  obedient  Servant 

Mascarene 
Annapolis  Royall  21'.'  May  1744. 

His  Excellency  Governour  Shirley 

Copy  Examined  by  J  Willard  Secretary. 

1  Early  in  May,  Canso  (or  Canseau,  a  fishing-station  at  the  southern  end  of  the 
Strait  of  Canseau,  which  separates  Cape  Breton  Island  from  Nova  Scotia),  was  taken 
and  burned  by  some  six  hundred  French  under  Captain  Duvivier.  In  August,  Duvi- 
vier  made  an  attempt  to  take  Annapolis,  but  was  repulsed.  Shirley  had  sent  Masca- 
rene a  reinforcement  of  two  hundred  militia.  Parkman  says  they  came  without  arms 
and  were  of  little  service.    A  Half  Century  of  Conflict,  II.  So. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        267 

GOVERNOR  LAW  TO  GOVERNOR  GREENE. 

MiLFORD  June  19'."  1744 

Yours  of  the  f^  Instant^  I  lately  rec"^  I  am  of  the 
same  Opinion  with  your  Hon''  our  Interests  are  in- 
separable and  shall  be  ready  to  give  all  Assistance 
for  your  Defence.  I  had  ordered  the  Cap*  of  our 
Sloop  to  take  in  his  full  Complement  of  men  and  to 
Cruise  from  Montauk  to  Gayhead  in  Consort  with 
your  Colony  Sloop  and  was  very  glad  to  hear  it  was 
agreeable  to  you 

I  take  leave  to  Subscribe 

Your  Hon""'^  most  humble  and  obedient  Servant 

JoN^"  Law 

P  S  last  Monday  was  Sennitt  Gov'  Wolcott  &c. 
Com'f  for  the  Congress  att  Albany  sett  out  on  their 
Journey  from  Hartford 

J  L 

To  W  Green  Eq"^ 


GOVERNOR  GREENE  TO  GOVERNOR  LAW. 

Newport  23*  of  June  1744 

Sr 

Yours  of  the  \<f>  Instant^  I  This  Day  Rec"?  and 
Caused  the  Same  to  be  Read  in  presence  of  our 
Gen"  assembly  the  Contents  of  which  was  well  ap- 
prov^  of,  but  since  Your  Honf  Doth  Not  Informe  us 
How  long  Your  Sloop  is  to  Cruise  I  am  advised  by 

1  See  above,  p.  261.  2  See  preceding  letter. 


268  Correspondence  of  the 

our  assembly  to  Inform  Your  Hon'  that  our  Sloop  is 
ordered  out  as  soon  as  may  be,  and  to  Cruse  from 
Marthaes  Vinniard  to  Montaug,  and  as  far  westward 
thereof  as  the  west  end  of  Long  Island,  and  so  to 
Cruise  untill  the  first  of  October  Next,  provided  Your 
Colony  Sloop  shall  Joine  with  ours;  in  s?  Cruise;^ 
which  I  make  no  Doubt  of ;  from  the  Contents  of  Your 
Hon"^.^  Letter,  this  act  of  our  Assembly  has  been  past 
Since  I  wrote  to  Your  Honf  Last.  I  pray  Your  Hon- 
ours answer  as  soon  as  may  be ;  our  Sloop  will  soon 
be  Ready,  the  Chief  She  wates  for  is  powder  and  that 
we  Expect  Dayly  from  York  or  Philidelphia. 
I  am  S!" 

Your  Hon"  Most  Humble  and  obediant  Servant 

W.  Greene 

To  the  HonK'"  Jonathan  Law  Esq' 

Gov'  and   Commandr-in-Chief  in   and  over  his 
Majesties  Colony  of  Connecticut 


GOVERNOR  LAW  TO  GOVERNOR  GREENE. 

MiLFORD  June  29'!"  1744 

I  just  now  rec''  per  the  Post  yours  of  the  23^?  in- 
stant^ and  M'  Coggeshall  intending  to  sail  for  New- 
port this  Night  or  to  morrow  morning  thot  it  most 
likely  to  give  you  the  quickest  Intelligence,  thot  best 
to  improve  it  and  shall  give  Orders  according  to  your 
proposal,  tho  I  am  not  so  fully  sensible  of  the  Ad- 
vantage in   going  any  further   Westward   than  was 

1  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  90,  91.  a  See  preceding  letter. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       269 

at  first  projected,  and  had  rather  that  were  abated, 
but  if  you  insist  upon  it  shall  make  no  Difficulty.  I 
also  this  day  rec^  Ace*  from  New  London  that  our 
Sloop  is  near  fully  manned  and  will  be  delayd  only 
on  Ace*  of  the  same  Article  w"'''  yours  is,  a  Supply 
of  w*"!"  I  hourly  expect  from  N.  York  to  be  landed  att 
New  haven,  even  all  that  I  can  any  where  procure, 
when  and  where  yours  and  ours  may  joyn  give  Notice 
to  our  Cap*  Prentis  att  N.  London.  I  am  informd 
from  Boston  this  day  That  Cap*  Tyng  on  Saturday 
night  last  took  a  french  Privateer  off  the  back  of 
Cape  Codd,  but  doubt  not  but  you  have  fuller  Ace! 

Our  Com"^  from  Albany  are  returned^  and  the  In- 
dians propose  a  Neutrality  w''.''  is  accepted  and  the 
french  Indians  are  allowd  40  dayes  to  come  to  Albany 
by  their  Sachems  and  come  into  the  same  Agree- 
ment, otherways  to  be  lookd  upon  as  Enemies  and 
two  Sachems  are  gone  to  the  Eastward  to  oblige  the 
Indians  there  to  come  into  the  same,  doubtless  you 
have  or  will  soon  have  a  full  Ace*  thereof.  I  take 
leave  to  assure  Your  Hon""  That  I  am 

Your  assured  Friend  and  humble  Servant 

JoN^?  Law 

To  Gov'  Green 


JOSIAH   WILLARD^   TO    GOVERNOR   GREENE. 

Boston  Septm!  i".  1744 
Sir^ 

I  am  directed  by  his  Excellency  Govf  Shirley  (who 
is  now  absent  at  Castle  William)  to  acquaint  your 

1  See  letters  of  June  5  and  8,  1744. 

2  Secretary  for  the  colony  of  Massachusetts  Bay. 


270  Correspondence  of  the 

Honour  that  a  Discovery  has  been  made  of  a  Pack 
of  Villains  in  this  Province,  who  have  counterfeited 
the  Bills  of  your  Governm^  and  utter'd  such  counter- 
feit Bills  within  this  Province,  viz!  in  Imitation  of 
your  twenty  shilling  and  half  Crown  Bills  of  the  new 
Tenor  issued  in  the  Year  1741,  and  have  begun  a 
Plate  in  Imitation  of  your  Ten  shilling  Bills  of  the 
same  Year,  For  w"^.^  they  will  be  tried  at  our  Court 
of  Assize  upon  Wednesday  or  Thursday  next.  It  is 
apprehended  necessary  to  their  Conviction  that  we 
should  be  furnished  with  an  authentick  Copy  of  the 
Act  for  establishing  those  Bills  within  your  Colony 
certified  under  the  Publick  Seal  of  your  Colony, 
and  likewise  that  two  of  the  Persons  whose  names 
are  counterfeited  upon  these  Bills  should  attend  as 
Witnesses,  otherwise  there  is  danger  that  the  Trial 
will  be  ineffectual ;  The  Signers  Names  to  the  half 
Crown  Bill  are  Edw^  Scott,  John  Gardner  and  Joseph 
Whipple,  To  the  Twenty  Shilling  Bill  Jn?  Gardner, 
John  Dexter  and  Edw^  Scott.  Please  to  send  the 
Copy  of  the  Act  by  the  Express.  The  Persons  prin- 
cipally concerned  are  Joseph  Boyce  and  John  Scias, 
who  were  each  convicted  before  at  Salem  when  the 
Signers  last  attended,  for  uttering  counterfeit  Bills. 
I  am 

Your  Honours  most  obedient  humble  Servant 

J  WiLLARD 

The  Hon*'!^  William  Green  Esq^ 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       271 


GOVERNOR   SHIRLEY    TO   GOVERNOR   GREENE. 

Boston  SeptemT  19.  1744. 
Sir^ 

There  are  just  arrived  in  this  place  three  Flags 
of  Truce  from  Louisburg  with  a  great  Number  of 
English  Prisoners,  Officers  and  others;  By  whom  I 
have  certain  Intelligence  that  two  Privateers  (a  Brig- 
antine  and  a  small  Ship)  were  already  come  out 
from  thence  to  cruize  upon  these  Coasts,  and  that 
another  Brigantine  Privateer  was  ready  to  sail  from 
thence  upon  the  same  Design :  ^  I  have  thereupon 
ordered  the  two  Guard  Vessels  belonging  to  this 
Province  now  in  Port  to  sail  forthwith  in  quest  of 
these  Vessels.  This  Advice  I  send  to  your  Honour, 
presuming  that  you  will  order  out  your  Guard  Ves- 
sel for  the  Protection  of  the  Navigation  belonging 
to  his  Majesty's  Subjects. 

I  must  pray  your  Honour  to  send  by  Express 
the  inclosed  Letters  to  the  Governour  of  Connecti- 
cut, and  to  desire  him  immediately  to  forward  that 
directed  to  the  Governour  of  New  York,  that  so  his 
Majesty's  Service  in  this  important  Article  may  not 
suffer  by  Delay. 

I  am  Your  Honours  most  obedient  humble  Servant 

W  Shirley. 

The  Hon''.'^  William  Green  EsqT 

Deposition  of  Messrs.  Richards^  JVealson,  and  Joncourt?' 

John  Richards  and  John  Nelson  of  New  York,  Mariners,  and 
Peter  D  Joncourt  of  Dublin  Merchant,  declare  and  Say  that  on 

1  See  following  document. 

2  Enclosed  in  letter  of  September  19,  1744. 


272  Correspondence  of  the 

the  Seventh  Day  of  June  last,  they  were  taken  in  the  Brigantine 
Madera  Packet  and  carried  into  Louisburgh  about  a  Month  after, 
and  upon  the  Seventh  Instant  Embarked  for  Boston  in  a  French 
Flag  of  Truce  and  that  three  Days  before  they  Sailed  from  Louis- 
burgh two  French  Privateers  Sailed  from  thence  designing  for 
the  Coast  of  New  England  and  New  York  as  was  generally 
reported  there,  One  of  the  said  Privateers  a  Ship  with  about  Six- 
teen Guns  and  about  One  hundred  and  fifty  Men,  and  the  other 
a  Brigantine  with  ten  Carriage  Guns  and  One  hundred  and  twenty 
men.  That  there  were  three  Men  of  war  at  Louisburg,  One  of 
Sixty  Six,  One  of  Fifty  Six,  and  the  other  of  thirty  Guns,  and  Six 
Merchant  Ships  arrived  from  East  Indies,  which  the  Declarants 
understood  the  Men  of  War  above  mentioned  were  designed  to 
Convoy  home  to  France 

John  Richards 
John  Nealson 
Peter  DeJoncourt 

Boston  September  \(f'  1744 
Cap?  John  Richards  John  Nelson  and  Mr  Peter  DeJoncourt 
made  Oath  to  the  Truth  of  the  Above    Declaration  by  them 
Signed 

Before  me  Jacob  Wendell  Just.  Pea. 


GOVERNOR  GREENE  TO  GOVERNOR  LAW. 

Last  Night  I  reef  a  Paequet  from  his  Excels  Wil- 
liam Shirley  Esq  Govr  of  the  Massachusets  Bay  &c.^ 
wherein  am  informed  that  3  Flags  of  Truce  arrived 
from  Louisbourg  with  a  great  Number  of  English 
Prisoners,  of  Officers  and  others,  who  have  given 
certain  Intelligence  that  two  Privateers  (a  Brigantine 
and  a  small  Ship)  were  already  sailed  from  thence  to 
come  upon  these  Coasts.  And  that  another  Brigan- 
tine Privateer  was  ready  to  sail  from  thence  upon 

1  See  preceding  document. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       273 

the  same  Design,  and  that  his  Excels  had  ordered 
the  two  Guard  Vessels  belonging  to  the  Province 
out  imediately  in  Quest  of  them ;  And  I  am  further 
to  acquaint  your  Honour,  That  our  General  Assem- 
bly is  now  Sitting,  and  have  this  Morning  pass'd  a 
Vote  to  continue  the  Cruise  of  our  Colony  Sloop  till 
the  last  Day  of  next  Month  ^  and  I  am  now  going  to 
dispatch  a  Boat  after  said  Sloop  (which  sailed  out 
from  here  but  Yesterday)  to  inform  Cap*  Fones  of 
the  Resolution  of  the  General  Assembly,  and  to  give 
Him  further  Directions  how  to  act  on  this  special  Oc- 
casion, and  I  am  also  desired  in  said  Vote  to  request 
That  Your  Honour  will  give  Cap*  Prentice  the  neces- 
sary Orders  in  this  Affair,  and  order  Him  to  cruise 
with  our  Sloop  during  the  Time  before  mentioned 

I  have  inclosed  to  your  Honor  a  Copy  of  the  Evi- 
dences of  John  Richards,  John  Nealson  and  Peter 
Dejoncourt,  that  gave  their  Affidavits  to  the  Facts 
in  the  above  Relation,  for  Fear  there  should  not  be 
one  inclosd  in  your  Pacquet,  and  his  ExceP.^  Govf 
Shirley  desired  Me  to  acquaint  Your  Honour  that 
He  requested  your  Sending  the  Packets  for  his  Ex- 
cell^  Governour  Clinton  and  Cap!  Peter  Warren, 
imediately  by  Express  as  soon  as  they  come  to  your 
Hands.     I  am  with  due  Respects 

Your  Honour  &c 

W.  G 

Newport  Rhode  Island  21'.*  September  1744. 

To  the  Hon^!^  Jonathan  Law  Esq 

Governour  and  Commander  in  Chief  in  and  over 
his  Majesty's  Colony  of  Connecticut 

1  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  96,  for  vote  of  the  Assembly. 


2  74  Correspondence  of  the 

GOVERNOR   LAW   TO   GOVERNOR   GREENE. 

MiLFORD  Sept*.'  23*  1 744 

I  just  now  rec*^  yours  of  the  21^*  Instant.*  shall 
forth  forward  the  Ace*  to  N  York  with  all  possible 
Expedition,  shall  take  Care  as  you  desire  with  respect 
to  our  Sloop,  which  I  understand  by  the  Bearor  is 
out  on  a  Cruise  (as  I  hope  with  yours)  and  will  be 
acquainted  by  the  Inteligence  you  have  sent  out 
after  yours 

I  remain  with  all  due  Regards 

Your  Hon's  humble  Servant 

Jon"^."  Law 

To  the  Hon^l'  William  Green  Esqr 
Govf  of  Rhode  island  etc. 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE  TO    GOVERNOR   GREENE. 

London  8""  the  12'?  1744 
Govern  Green 

I  wrote  Thee  my  last  of  9*^  5  month,  since  which 
I  have  not  been  favf  with  any  from  Thee. 

As  to  our  Cause  depending  at  the  Council  Office 
relating  the  Boundary  we  have  not  been  able  to  bring 
it  to  a  hearing  yet  notwithstanding  we  have  often 
Endeavoured  it. 

And  now  this  serves  to  bring  my  Ace*  with  the 
Colony,  the  Ballance  whereof  is  in  my  fav'  £2^^] . 
16  .  10.  and  the  Council  Office  Fees  and  our  Council 

1  See  preceding  letter. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       275 

fees  not  yet  brought  in,  and  as  the  Parhament  is  to 
sitt  the  2^^  of  next  Month  for  Dispatch  of  Business 
I  hope  the  Colony  will  furnish  me  with  money  suf- 
ficiently to  enable  me  to  carry  on  their  Affairs,  for 
without  it  little  can  be  done  here,  its  pitty  the  Causes 
sho'd  be  starved,  —  there  will  be  a  Call  for  Consider- 
able Sums  as  I  have  already  heretofore  advised  the 
Committee  of  Correspondence:  Our  Solicitor  has  sent 
me  his  Bills  of  Costs  to  the  30*  Ult?  w*  comes  also 
here  inclosed  and  are  included  as  thou  wilt  see  in  my 
Ace!  We  have  2  Causes  depending  of  the  Colonies, 
besides  that  which  is  likely  to  engage  us  in  Parliam*, 
I  hope  therefore  at  least  ^^500  Sterl^  will  be  remitted 
me,  over  and  above  the  Ballance  of  my  Ace!  of  which 
I  shall  endeavour  to  render  Ace!  to  Satisfaction,  and 
do  my  utmost  together  with  the  Assistance  of  our 
Lawy?  for  the  Interest  and  Service  of  the  Colony. 

I  understand  it  is  difficult  now  this  War  time  to 
remit  money  over  here  which  makes  it  still  harder 
for  me,  I  wo"^  therefore  recommend  the  making  the 
Remittances  per  James  Allen  Esq'  of  Boston  who  I 
am  informed  will  have  Occasion  to  draw  for  very 
considerable  Sums  on  the  Office  of  Ordinance  which 
I  believe  will  be  well  paid,  I  having  a  pretty  good 
Acquaintance  w'?*  the  Principle  person  that  transacts 
Affairs  in  that  Office,  and  that  there  will  be  no 
Risque  of  the  Sea ;  I  wish  he  co"^  be  apply 'd  to  in 
time.  It  is  now  a  Year  and  a  half  since  I  have  had 
any  Money  sent  me  from  Rhode  Isle  Colony. 

This  may  also  acquaint  thee  that  I  have  apply'd 
again  to  the  L^'  Committee  of  Council  for  a  Grant 
of  some  Stores  for  yo!  Fortification  agreeable  to  the 


276  Correspondence  of  the 

Colonys  Request  some  Years  since  in  their  Address 
to  the  King,^  on  w'=.''  I  had  formerly  obtained  a  favour- 
able Report  from  the  Lords  of  Trade,  but  since  that 
time  had  layn  dormant  'till  now ;  and  upon  my  re- 
newing the  Solicitation  to  the  s*^  L*^.'  of  the  Council, 
have  obtain'd  an  Order  of  Reference  (a  Copy  whereof 
is  inclosed)  to  the  Board  of  Ordinance  for  their  Re- 
port and  Estimate,  and  that  I  hope  I  shall  have  in 
2  or  3  Weeks  time,  when  that  is  done  I  have  an 
Expectation  given  me  of  its  beeing  with  the  other 
usual  Estimates  layd  before  the  Parliam*  the  begin- 
ning of  the  next  Sessions ;  but  thou  must  Suppose 
it  will  be  attended  with  some  Expence,  more  of  this 
in  my  next. 

As  to  publick  News,  the  War  carry 'd  on  with  Vig- 
our still  almost  on  all  sides  especially  in  Germany, 
Bohem^  and  Italy.^  Our  Army  indeed  in  Flanders 
are  broke  up  to  go  into  Winter  Quart?  without  ef- 
fecting much  this  Campain.  the  King  of  Prussia 
as  Auxilliary  to  the  Emperor  against  the  Qu :  of 
Hungary  pushes  on  his  Conquests  in  Bohem^  having 
in  a  very  little  time  taken  Prague  the  Capital  of 
that  Kingdom,  but  Prince  Charles  has  got  together  a 
Numerous  Army  and  expects  dayly  to  be  joyn'd  by 
a  good  Number  of  the  King  of  Polands  Forces ;  is 
now  within  a  few  Leagues  of  the  King  of  Prussia  so 
that  a  Vigorous  general  Battle  between  'em  is  soon 
expected,  its  thought  that  the  King  of  Naples  whose 
Queen  is  Daughter  to  the  King  of  Poland  has  agreed 
to  a  Nutrality  w'.^  the  Qu:  of  Hungary  or  at  least  to 

1  See  the  address  to  the  King  on  p.  15,  and  letter  of  December  i,  1735. 

2  See  note  to  Partridge's  letter  of  February  23,  1744. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       277 

a  Suspention  of  Arms,  and  that  our  Fleet  in  the 
Meditera"  will  forbear  Committing  any  hostilitys  by 
bombarding  of  Naples  as  once  was  doubtless  intend'd ; 
and  this  is  supposed  to  be  principaly  owing  to  the 
King  of  Polands  Interposition  in  fav"^  of  his  Daugh- 
ter; He  himself  having  lately  come  into  an  Alliance 
with  the  King  of  Englf  and  the  Qu :  of  Hungary. 

As  to  the  Naval  War  we  hear  but  of  few  of  our 
Ships  taken  by  the  Spaniards  but  more  by  the  French; 
yet  as  we  have  abundance  of  privateers  out,  besides 
our  Men  of  War  I  am  apt  to  think  our  Losses  are 
scarce  one  fifth  part  in  comparison  of  w'  are  taken 
from  the  French,  for  the  rest  I  refer  to  the  Prints 
which  I  send  by  the  Convey^  and  remain  with  due 
Respects  to  thyself  and  the  Gentlemen  of  the  Council 
Thy  Assured  Friend 

RicH^  Partridge 

31  ditto 

Since  writing  the  foregoing  a  Motion  has  been 
made  before  the  Lords  Committee  of  Council  for  a 
day  to  be  fixed  of  hearing  of  our  Affair  of  the  Bound- 
ary and  they  have  Appointed  the  6 :  of  next  Month 
for  it,  upon  which  I  have  paid  £^2,  for  the  Attor''  and 
SolK  Gen"  fees  with  their  Briefs,  so  that  the  Ball?  of 
the  Colonys  Acco*f  is  already  ^299  .  t6  .  10  Sterl^  in 
my  favour  and  its  tho*  it  will  take  up  3  Sittings  of 
the  Lords  Committee  before  it  is  over,  and  then  the 
Bll?  will  still  be  considerably  more  besides  Council 
office  ffees  &c^ 

As  for  further  Publick  News  the  Emp";  has  retaken 
Bavaria  his  hereditary  dominions,  or  g^'■  part  of  it 


278  Correspondence  of  the 

from  the  Queen  of  Hungary  w''!'  I  take  to  be  the 
Consequence  of  the  King  of  Prussias  late  Conduct 
in  invading  her  Dominf  in  Bohemia,  but  upon  Prince 
Charles's  entring  that  Kingdom  w*!*  a  powerfull  Army 
the  s*^  King  retreated  back  towards  Prague  where- 
upon sev^  places  he  had  taken  are  now  retaken  for 
the  Queen  together  w*^  a  great  many  Prussians  Offi- 
cers and  Soldiers,  and  Prince  Charles  has  follow^  him 
pretty  close  being  now  joyned  w*^  abo*  24000  Saxons 
from  the  King  of  Poland,  and  its  expected  a  decissive 
Battle  will  soon  happen. 

Frieburg  a  Strong  Fortified  Town  of  the  Queen 
of  Hungarys  has  been  beseiged  for  some  time  by 
the  ffrench  King  where  in  he  has  lost  abundance 
of  Men  and  it's  tho*  he  will  be  at  last  obliged  to  turn 
the  Seige  into  a  Blockade,  the  Season  being  so  far 
advanced. 

Coni  (a  place  of  great  Consideration  in  Ittaly  be- 
longing to  the  King  of  Sardinia  our  ally)  and  w''.^  is  an 
inlett  into  the  whole  Country  of  Piedmont  has  been 
for  some  time  beseigd  by  the  Spaniards  and  ffrench, 
holds  out  resolutely,  and  its  confirmd  now  that  the 
Seige  is  Actually  raised  and  their  fforces  withdrawn 
to  their  great  Damage  and  Mortification. 

R°  Partridge 

9^'  13  : 

Since  the  foregoing  I  have  obtained  a  Copy  of  the 
Office  of  Ordinance  of  Report  and  Estimate  of  the 
Cannon  and  Stores  for  Rh^  Island^  before  men- 
tioned  a  Copy  whereof  comes  herewith  so   that   I 

1  See  the  following  document. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island         279 

think  we  are  in  a  fair  way  of  procuring  them :  the 
late  Address  from  the  Colony  I  reed  per  Dep :  Gov- 
ernour  but  the  f^  Inst,  whereby  it  will  appear  that  I 
was  mindfull  of  this  Affair  in  due  time  before  it  came 
to  hand,  we  have  had  one  hearing  about  the  Bound- 
arys  and  I  am  going  up  this  Evening  to  a  Second 
hearing  when  perhaps  it  may  be  ended  and  will  defer 
an  acco*  of  this  Issue  to  my  next 

R  P. 
To  WiLL^  Green  Esq' 

Governour  and  Commander  in  Chief  of  the 
Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plan- 
tations 


REPORT   OF   THE    OFFICE   OF   ORDNANCE   TO   HIS    GRACE  THE 
DUKE   OF    MONTAGU.^ 

My  Lord, 

Your  Grace  having  been  pleased  to  referr  to  us 
and  to  require  our  opinion  upon  an  Order  made  by 
the  Right  Honble  the  Lords  of  the  Committee  of 
Council  for  Plantation  affairs,  dat^  the  2o'^  ultimo  in 
the  following  words  — 

"  Whereas  there  was  this  day  read  to  their  Lord- 
ships the  Petition  of  Richard  Partridge  agent  for  the 
Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plantations, 
humbly  praying  for  the  reasons  therein  contained 
that  a  supply  of  Twenty  Cannon  compleat  from  18 
to  24  pounders  with  fifty  rounds  of  shott  for  each 
Gun  and  other  Stores  proper  for  them  may  be  sent 
to  that  Colony  to  compleat  the  Number  requisite  to 

1  Enclosed  In  preceding  letter. 


28o  Correspondence  of  the 

furnish  the  fort  they  have  built  at  their  own  Expence, 
The  Lords  of  the  Committee  this  day  took  the  said 
petition  into  Consideration  together  with  a  report  of 
the  Lords  Commissioners  for  Trade  and  Plantations 
upon  a  former  Application  of  the  like  Nature  made 
by  the  present  Petitioner  and  are  hereby  pleased  to 
referr  the  said  Petition  and  report  (Copys  whereof  are 
hereunto  annexed)  to  His  Grace  the  Duke  of  Mon- 
tagu master  General  of  the  ordnance  to  Consider 
thereof,  and  in  Case  he  has  no  objection  thereto,  that 
then  he  do  cause  an  Estimate  to  be  prepared  of  the 
Expence  thereof  and  report  the  same  to  this  Com- 
mittee. W.  Sharpe." 

We  have  accordingly  my  Lord  taken  the  same 
into  Consideration,  and  beg  leave  to  report  to  your 
Grace  that  as  we  have  no  Plan  or  Profil  of  their  Fort 
we  are  not  competent  Judges  whether  the  Number 
and  Nature  of  Guns  demanded  are  either  proper 
sufficient  or  necessary  for  the  same. 

That  it  does  not  appear  from  the  Books  of  this 
Office  that  Rhode  Island  has  ever  been  supplyed 
with  ordnance  or  Military  Stores  of  any  kind  what- 
soever, and  as  their  Fort  can  be  of  no  Use,  and  the 
Expence  they  are  said  to  have  put  themselves  to  will 
be  to  no  purpose  unless  they  are  furnished  with  a 
supply  of  Guns  and  Stores  We  have  therefore  drawn 
out  the  inclosed  proportion  necessary  for  Twenty 
pieces  of  ordnance  of  the  Natures  demanded  the 
Charge  of  which  will  amount  to  one  Thousand 
Eight  Hundred  and  Twelve  Pounds  fourteen  Shil- 
lings but  we  have  no  money  allotted  for  this  Service, 
nor  any  Fund  out  of  which   the  Expence  can   be 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       281 


defrayed  if  it  should  be  thought  proper  to  grant  this 

Supply  We  are  My  Lord 

Your  Graces  most  obedient  and  most  hble  Servant 

W.  R.  Earle 
Tho.  Lascelles 
Geo.  Gregory 

Office  of  Ordnance  23?  October  1744. 

His  Grace  the  Duke  of  Montagu  master  General 
of  his  Majestys  Ordnance 


Estimate  of  Military  Stores  for  Rhode  Island} 

A  Proportion  of  Stores  Necessary  for  the  Following  Iron  Ord- 
nance demanded  for  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and  Provi- 
dence Plantations  prepared  in  Consequence  of  an  Order  of 
reference  from  the  Lords  of  the  Committee  of  Council  for 
Plantation  Affairs  dated  2o*^  Sepf  1744. 

L      s 

Iron  Ordnance |  24  Pounders    ^8   |  ^^^  _ 

Oak  standing  Carriages  with    (      p  ,, 


2  —  2  — 


2P' ^;r       12  \    ^58- 

Iron  Trucks  i  Bed  i  Corner  .    (  ) 

hadlass  and  Spunges      •••■]t8  «        sf  ^°  —  ^  — 

Round  Shott .    |j4Po"  400   |  xoo  -  3  -  6 

Tampeons |  J4  Po"  16    " 

Hormers |  ^4  Po"  J 

Cured  Paper  Cartridges      .     •    •]  To     °  5^0 

Copper  powder  measures    •     •    •]  jt                      .    \  18  —  6 

Wadhooks  with  Rammers i  —  5 

1  Enclosed  in  letter  of  October  12,  1744. 


5  — 


282 


CorresponcUfue  of  the 


Wadhooks  with  Rammers  for     (  24  Po"  4 

Staffs  Spunges |  18  6 

Staves 10 

Apron  of  Lead 20 

Corn  powder  .     .     , Nil 

Match 10 

Powder  Horns 10 

Priming  Irons 20 

Handspikes 40 

Iron  Crows  of  \\  feet 6 

Linstocks  without  Cocks 10 

Budge  Barrels  Copper  Hooped 2 

Handscrews  large 2 

Sling  Cart  compleat i 

Sheep  skins     ....      doz  —  odd     i :  .     .  6 

Spunge  tacks 800 

Copper  Nails 80 

Tryangle  Gun i 

Iron  Gun  Blocks  with  brass  Shivers     \  jJ^  ,?    J 

'5  In* faths'  . 

,3i fath     .  2 

Tarr'd  marlin Scains  .  4 

( Muscovy      ....  2 

Lanthorns  .     .     .     .     <  Ordinary     ....  6 

(Dark 4 

Freight  and  Incidents  on  99  Tons  at  £4  :  los 
per  Ton 


I 


White  Rope  of 


22   ) 


18-    5 


6—13  —  4 


17  — 


I  —  II  — 


13  — 


445 


10 


i^I312 


14  — 


THE  DUKE  OF  MONTAGU  TO  THE  LORD  PRESIDENT  OF  THE 

COUNCIL.! 

Jkfy  Lord — 

In  obedience  to  the  order  of  Council  of  the  20'!* 
Sep!"  last  I  send  your  Lordship  inclosed  the  Report 
of  the  principal  officers  of  the  ordnance  to  me  upon 
the  Petition  of  Richard  Partridge  agent  for  the  Col- 
ony of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plantations 
with  an  Estimate  of  the  Charge  of  the  Guns  and 
Stores  demanded  for  the  defence  of  that  Colony,  in 


1  Enclosed  in  letter  of  October  12, 1744. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        283 

which  I  agree  with  them,  all  which  is  humbly  Sub- 
mitted by  My  Lord 

Your  Lordships  most  obedient  and  most  hble  ser- 
vant 

Montagu 

6'?  Nov!  1744 

To  Rt.  Honble  Lord  President  of  the  Council. 


JOSIAH   WILLARD   TO    GOVERNOR   GREENE. 

Sir 

With  the  Advice  of  the  Council  His  Excellency 
Governour  Shirley  has  been  pleased  to  Issue  his 
Proclamation,  a  printed  Copy  whereof  is  herewith 
sent  you,  against  a  Number  of  Notorious  Disturb- 
ers of  the  King's  Peace,  who  lately  Committed  a 
very  heinous  Riot  in  Bristol^  within  this  Province; 
promising  a  Reward  to  any  person  that  shall  dis- 
cover and  apprehend  such  of  them  particularly  men- 
tioned therein  as  shall  not  Submit  and  Surrender 
themselves  to  the  Justice  of  the  Government  Some 
of  them  it  is  known  have  absconded  and  fled  into 
places  within  your  Colony,  and  tho'  sensible  of  their 
grievous  Offence,  would,  during  their  residence  in 
your  Government  as  in  a  place  of  Safety,  Capitulate 
with  this  Government.  It  is  to  be  hoped  they  will 
see  it  to  be  for  their  own  Benefit  and  Safety  as  well 
as  for  the  publick  Peace,  for  them  to  come  in  and 

1  Bristol,  it  will  be  remembered,  lay  within  the  debatable  land  which  was  claimed 
by  both  Massachusetts  and  Rhode  Island.  In  the  Assembly  of  March,  1745,  i*^  '^'^'^ 
voted  to  write  the  secretary  of  Massachusetts  "  that  we  know  none  of  those  rioters 
being  within  this  colony."    Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /,,  V.  107 ;  see  also  letter  of  March  7, 1745. 


284  Correspondence  of  the 

Submit  to  Justice,  if  not,  yet  such  is  the  Nature  of 
their  Offence  and  so  Subversive  in  its  Tendency  of 
His  Majesty's  Government  in  all  these  his  Colonies, 
that  they  will  not  (We  assure  our  selves)  be  skreened 
and  Countenanced  by  any  in  Authority  in  your  Gov- 
ernment. And  I  am  therefore  directed  to  write  these 
to  Your  Honour  and  to  desire  you  will  give  Orders 
to  Proper  Officers  to  Deliver  such  Offenders  to  law- 
ful Authority  within  this  province,  this  is  Expected 
by  the  Government  here,  for  that  the  Peace  and  Wel- 
fare of  the  King's  Province  and  Colonies  in  General 
Depends  on  such  a  Proceedure  in  all  Cases  of  like 
Nature.    I  am  Sir 

Your  most  Obedient,  Humble  servant 

JosiAH  WiLLARD  Secretary. 
Boston  Oct!  18.  1744. 

To  the  Honourable  William  Green  Esqr 


THE    GENERAL    ASSEMBLY    TO    RICHARD    PARTRIDGE. 

Yours  dated  the  8'^  Day  of  May  1744  with  the 
Bill  presented  to  prevent  the  Issuing  Bills  of  Credit 
in  the  British  Colonys  is  come  to  Hand^  very  lately 
being  as  we  suppose  retarded  by  the  Ships  waiting 
for  Convoy.  But  not  with  standing  You  can  not 
have  any  Instructions  from  the  Government  reach 
You  by  the  approaching  Sessions  of  Parliament,  we 
nevertheless  so  far  confide  in  Your  Care  of  and  Fidel- 
ity to  the  Good  of  the  Government  and  the  Preserva- 

1  See  note  to  Partridge's  letter  of  that  date. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        285 

tion  of  its  Priviledges,  as  to  believe  You  will  leave 
Nothing  undone  that  is  in  Your  Power  to  do  by 
soliciting  and  procuring  the  best  of  Council  to  pre- 
serve the  same. 

We  have  before  us  now  the  aforesaid  Bill  about 
the  Paper  Currency  and  have  voted  and  ordered 
;!^55o  Pounds  Sterling  to  be  remitted  to  You  forth 
with,  and  there  is  no  Doubt  but  You  will  have  it 
done  with  all  the  Care  and  Expedition  possible ;  so 
that  in  the  mean  Time  it  is  expected  no  Expence 
Care  or  Pains  will  be  wanting  in  opposing  any  At- 
tempt made  against  our  Charter.  And  You  may  de- 
pend that  as  Occasion  serves  the  Government  will 
be  willing  at  all  Times  to  be  at  any  Necessary  Charge 
to  support  their  Priviledges  which  they  esteeme  too 
valuable  to  be  given  up  without  Defence.  Especially 
since  the  Consequence  wou'd  not  be  the  Loss  of  Our 
Former  Priviledges  solely,  but  so  sudden  a  Change 
as  that  Bill  wou'd  cause  in  this  Constitution  must 
necessarily  work  The  Ruin  of  many  of  the  Inhab- 
itants of  the  Colony. 

The  Design  of  the  General  Assembly  is  to  let 
You  know  the  mind  and  Resolution  of  the  Govern- 
ment in  this  Point  and  not  to  state  the  Case  relat- 
ing [to]  our  Charter  Priviledges  which  wou'd  afford 
matter  to  copious  for  a  Letter.  But  it  can  not  but 
be  observed,  in  general,  that  if  His  Majesty's  Prede- 
cessor by  the  Charter  granted  to  the  Colony  gave 
away  part  of  His  Prerogative,  or  in  other  Terms  con- 
veyed it  into  another  Channel,  it  is  strange  that  an 
Attempt  shou'd  be  made  in  a  Parliamentory  Way 
to  fix  that  Power  immediately  in  His  Majesty  at  the 


286  Correspondence  of  the 

same  Time  the  Grant  remains  good  and  unaltered. 
And  we  can  not  think  but  that  if  the  Method  of  Pro- 
ceeding now  in  Hand  (which  appears  not  to  be  first 
moved  by  the  Parliament  of  England,  but  by  some 
Enemies  of  our  Constitution)  be  opposed  in  a  proper 
manner,  it  will  from  the  Nature  of  the  Proceeding 
and  the  Inconsistency  and  Arbitrariness  thereof  be 
rejected ;  since  if  this  Bill  pass,  by  the  same  Rule 
every  Priviledge  contained  in  the  Charter  may  be 
voted  away  in  Parliament,  notwithstanding' the  Grant 
stands  in  its  original  Strength,  which  is  contrary  to 
the  English  Constitution  in  every  Instance  of  this 
Nature  from  the  lowest  Things  to  the  Matters  of  the 
Highest  Nature  and  Consequence.  And  by  the  Plain 
Letter  of  this  Bill  all  Governments  in  the  Planta- 
tions wou'd  be  (or  be  liable  to  be)  circumstanced 
alike  whether  Charter  Governments  or  not,  and  be 
their  Priviledges  ever  so  different.  And  no  Govern- 
ment that  is  incorporated  by  a  Charter  and  the  In- 
habitants have  been  born  and  lived  and  flourished 
under  those  Priviledged  wou'd  be  so  supine  as  to 
suffer  them  to  be  Taken  away  without  defending 
them.  Therefore  when  this  Attempt  is  carried  on  or 
any  other  shall  be  framed  or  made  against  the  Privi- 
ledges of  this  Colony,  in  whatever  shape  the  same 
may  appear  it  is  expected  and  insisted  on  that  You 
do  from  Time  to  Time  fee  able  and  good  Council 
and  oppose  the  same  with  the  Utmost  Care  Wisdom 
and  Skill.  And  if  any  Thing  be  done  in  Parliament 
that  militates  against  Our  plain  Charter  Priviledges 
for  want  of  a  due  Hearing,  The  contrary  of  which 
we  hope  for,  it  is  not  doubted  but  that  by  a  proper 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        287 

Address,  that  just  and  wise  Body  will  set  every  Thing 
right. 

We  apprehended  that  the  aforesaid  Sum  wou'd  be 
sufficient  for  the  present,  and  as  we  expect  You  will 
on  all  Occasions  inform  us  of  the  State  of  Affairs  at 
Home  as  to  this  Colony ;  so  You  may  expect  that  as 
Necessity  shall  call  for  it  we  shall  not  be  wanting  in 
Our  supplies  for  the  Preservation  of  Our  Right. 
Signed  by  Order  of  the  Gen!  Assembly 

P.  S.  The  one  hundred  and  fifty  Pounds  which 
was  ordered  for  the  Carrying  on  the  affair  of  the 
Boundery  will  be  immediately  remitted  to  you  And 
we  expect  that  you  will  push  on  that  Affair  in  such 
a  Manner  as  to  get  the  same  determined  as  soon  as 
may  be. 

Nov!  3?  1744 

To  the  House  of  Mag^' 

Gen^  Resolv'd  that  the  aforewritten  Draught  be 
approv'd  of  and  that  three  fair  Copies  thereof  be 
signd  by  his  Honf  the  Gov!  and  Sent  in  three  Dif- 
ferent Vessells  to  the  Agent  as  soon  as  may  be 
Voted  and  past 
per  Ord' 

J  Lyndon  Clerk 
Concurr'd  with 
per  ordf 

Jas  Martin  Secry 

Reported  by 

James  Arnolds 

D  Updike         VCom? 

Geo  Brown     J 


288  Correspondence  of  the 

RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO   GOVERNOR   GREENE, 

London  9*1'  3?  1744. 
Gov"".  Green 

I  have  of  the  12  and  31**  ult  wrote  thee  at  large 
by  this  Conveyance  to  w**  I  refer,  this  serves  now  to 
bring  the  the  above  Copy  of  notice  I  have  received 
from  the  Clark  of  the  Council  for  the  Hearing:  of 
our  Cause  of  the  Boundarys  the  6'.''  Inst,  our  Coun- 
sel are  feed  and  have  their  Briefs  to  prepare  for  it. 

Cap!  Cary  being  not  yet  gone  gives  me  the  oppor- 
tunity of  writing  this  and  of  sending  thee  the  in- 
closed prints  from 

Thy  lo :  Fr^ 

R?  Partridge 
To  Governour  Green 

Council  Office  Whitehall. 
the  I'.'  of  November  1744. 

The  Right  Honourable  the  Lords  of  the  Commit- 
tee of  Council  for  hearing  Appeals  from  the  Plan- 
tations having  appointed  to  meet  in  the  Council 
Chamber  at  the  Cockpit  Whitehall  on  Tuesday  the 
6'.^  of  this  Instant  at  six  of  the  Clock  in  the  Evening, 
to  hear  the  Appeal  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island 
against  the  Province  of  the  Massachusetts  Bay,  and 
also  the  appeale  of  the  Province  of  the  Massachusets 
Bay  against  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  relating  to 
the  Boundarys  —  These  are  therefore  to  give  Notice 
to  all  Partys  therein  concerned  that  they  come  pre- 
pared to  be  heard  by  their  Counsel  learned  in  the 
Law  at  the  said  time. 
Ja  :  Vernon. 

Copy  mentioned  above. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        289 

RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR    GREENE. 

London  xber  the  11.  1744 
Gov''.  Green 

This  just  comes  to  acquaint  thee  that  our  Bound- 
ary Cause  with  the  Massach?  depending  before  the 
Lords  Committee  of  Council  was  this  Evening  deter- 
mined after  a  Hearing  of  4  Sittings  of  the  Commit- 
tee w*'^  was  learnedly  argued  by  the  Counsel  on  both 
Sides,  and  upon  the  whole  the  Lords  Confirmd  the 
Judgment  of  the  Commission?  intirely  without  any 
variation,  w*"^  I  hope  will  be  satisfactory  to  the  Col- 
ony: Our  Counsel  insisted  Strenously  upon  a  fur- 
ther demand  and  I  find  it  was  not  without  some 
difficulty  and  debating  that  the  Lords  come  in  to  fix 
it  as  they  have  done,  the  L^  Ch  :  Justice  wills  being 
strongly  in  our  favour :  and  I  do  assure  thee  unwaried 
Pains  has  been  used  and  no  Cost  has  been  Spared 
on  our  Side  —  on  which  Success  I  heartily  congratu- 
late our  Colony. 

the  Bill  in  Parliam!  about  Paper  Currency  not  yet 
proceeded  upon  but  don't  doubt  but  it  will  be  taken 
up  in  3  or  4  weeks  time  and  hope  the  Colony  will  be 
speedy  in  their  Remittances  to  enable  me  to  effectu- 
ate their  Affairs. 

it  is  now  10  o'clock  at  night  and  I  have  not  time 
to  [word  torn  out]  So  remain  with  due  respects  to  thy 
self  and  the  Gentlemen  [of]  the  Council  and  House 
of  Representatives  from 

Thy  assured  Friend 

R?  Partridge 

To  WiLLM  Green  Esq' 

Governor  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and 
Providence  Plantations. 


290  Correspondence  of  the 

THE   GENERAL   ASSEMBLY   TO   RICHARD  PARTRIDGE. 

Newport  December  12  1744 
M"".  Partridge, 

Inclosed  We  send  You  a  Bill  of  Exchange  for  one 
hundred  Pounds  sterling  which  together  with  Six- 
teen Ounces  of  Gold  Dust  We  send  You  by  this 
Conveyance,  is  on  the  Colony's  Ace!  to  defray  the 
Charge  arising  on  the  Boundary  Dispute,  You  have 
also  now  inclosed  duplicates  of  the  Petition  to  his 
Majesty  to  obtain  some  Cannon  for  the  Colony,  and 
of  a  Letter  to  Thomas  Corbet  Esq'  Secretary  to  the 
Right  Hon^!^  the  Lords  of  the  Admiralty  and  a  Let- 
ter from  Gov'  Green  ^  in  which  You  will  find  the 
Sentiments  of  the  Assembly  relating  to  the  Bill  now 
in  Parliament  to  prevent  future  Emissions  of  paper 
Currency  in  the  Plantations  You  are  to  deliver  the 
Petition  to  his  Majesty  if  the  former  of  which  this  is 
a  Copy  has  not  been  with  You  and  presented  already 
and  the  Letter  to  M'  Corbet  as  soon  as  possible,  We 
wish  these  safe  to  Hand  and  are 

Your  assured  Friends 


1  The  letter  was  probably  that  of  November  3,  referred  to  by  Partridge  in  the  next 
letter.     None  of  the  enclosures  here  mentioned  are  now  in  the  archives. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       291 

richard  partridge  to  deputy-governor  whipple.^ 

London  X*^'  15*  1744 
Loving  Friend  Joseph  Whipple 

This  comes  to  Acquaint  Thee  that  our  Cause  of 
the  Boundaries  which  has  been  so  long  depending 
with  the  Province  of  the  Massach*.^  Bay  was  on  the 
1 1  Ins'  brought  on  at  a  4*  Hearing  before  the  Lords 
Committee  of  Council  and  finally  concluded  after  3 
other  Hearings  before  that,  had  been  had  by  Coun- 
cil Reared  in  the  Law.'^ 

The  Lords  Pres*  were  the  Earl  of  Pembroke,  Lord 
Sandys,  LI  Chief  Justice  Willes  and  Sr  Jn°  Rushout, 
Our  Counsel  beeing  the  Attorney  and  SoHcitor  Gen- 
erall  and  on  their  side  were  Councillors  Noel  and 
Hume  Campbell. 

The  Pleadings  began  by  their  Counsel  who  I  think 
made  the  very  most  of  their  Cause  objecting  against 
the  Judgement  of  the  Comm*".^  particularly  in  that 
they  refused  to  order  a  Survey  (when  insisted  on)  of 
the  Bounds  of  New  Plim?  Colony,  and  Argued  stren- 
iously  on  the  Validity  of  the  Patent  of  that  Colony 
as  Prior  to  the  Rhode  Island  Charter,  but  that  which 
I  apprehended  they  relyed  most  on,  was  a  Plan  of 
the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  sent  over  here  to  the 
Lords  of  Trade  by  our  Govern!"  in  the  Year  1720  and 
certified  under  the  Govern?  own  hand,  suggest?  that 
it  was  a  true  Map  of  the  Colonys  whole  Boundarys 

1  Whipple  was  a  prominent  merchant  of  Newport,  elected  deputy-governor  in  1743, 
1746,  1751,  and  1753.  His  failure  in  the  depreciation  crisis  of  1753  was  the  cause  of 
the  first  bankruptcy  act  in  Rhode  Island,  passed  for  his  special  relief.  See  Weeden, 
Economic  and  Social  History  of  New  England,  II.  676,  and  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  378. 

2  The  case  for  appeal  was  sent  to  Pai-tridge  in  April,  1742.     See  letter  of  April  21. 


292  Correspondence  of  the 

on  occasion  of  the  Controversy  then  with  Connecti- 
cutt,^  and  that  in  that  Plan  the  Boundaries  with  the 
Massach?  were  also  laid  down  and  therein  described 
no  otherwise  than  what  the  Massach*.^  now  Claimed 
(or  to  this  purpose)  well  hoping  this  wou'd  have  been 
of  great  Service  to  them,  and  procured  One  of  the 
Clerks  of  the  Bo^  of  Trade  to  attend  at  the  Hearing 
with  it,  But  this  did  not  stand  them  in  any  stead  for 
the  Lords  Committee  (upon  the  Arguments  urged 
by  our  Counsel  against  it  as  beeing  unprecidental  in 
Appeals)  woud  by  no  means  permitt  it  to  be  pro- 
duced as  any  sort  of  Evidence,  in  as  much  as  it  had 
not  been  exhibited  before  the  Comm''^  neither  was  it 
in  the  Proceedings,  and  so  rejected  it.  And  as  to 
the  Priority  of  Plimouth  Patent  the  Lord  Chief  Jus- 
tice intimated  that  the  Patent  was  only  from  Coun- 
cil of  Plym?  and  not  from  the  Crown,  and  that  one 
Corporation  cou'd  not  grant  Jurisdiction  to  an  other 
Corporation  &c^  As  to  our  Counsel  both  the  Attor- 
ney and  Solicitor  Gen^  pleaded  our  Cause  excellently 
well,  answering  the  Objections  of  their  Counsel,  set- 
ting forth  the  Inconsistancy  of  the  Massach?  Claime, 
the  imposibility  of  reconciling  the  Western  Bound- 
arys  of  Plym°  Patent  according  to  Sense  or  Reason 
as  described  in  their  Grant,  (if  even  the  Power  of 
Jurisdiction  had  been  allowed  them)  and  that  a  great 
deal  of  their  Pleadings  or  pretensions  were  mere 
Amusements  to  puzle  and  Confound  the  Judgements 
of  their  Lordships  —  a  great  deal  of  the  Evidence 
on  both  sides  were  produced  and  read  out  of  the 
proceedings  which  took  up  much  of  the  time  and 

1  For  an  account  of  the  Connecticut  X)undary,  see  p.  xxii  of  the  Introduciion. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       293 

was  the  Cause  of  Spinning  out  the  Tryal  to  that 
length. 

When  the  pleadings  of  the  Counsel  on  both  Sides 
were  over,  we  were  ordered  to  withdraw ;  and  in  about 
3/4  of  an  hour  afterwards  when  the  Lords  Committee 
had  Consulted  together  and  Debated  upon  the  Mer- 
ritts  they  concluded  to  Dismiss  both  appeals  and  to 
Confirm  the  Judgement  of  the  Comm?  which  puts  an 
entire  end  to  the  Controversy  and  fixes  the  Bound- 
arys  for  ever;^  this  I  make  no  doubt  when  it  comes 
to  be  duly  Considered  will  be  acceptable  to  the  Col- 
ony, on  which  Success  I  heartily  congratulate  them. 
I  wou'd  Observe  that  during  the  Interval  of  the 
proceedings  here  many  Observations  were  made  in 
Writing  on  our  side  with  further  Instructions  for 
our  Counsel  as  an  Addition  to  their  first  large  Brief, 
which  to  be  sure  was  of  very  great  Service  to  our 
Cause,  and  to  Demonstrate  the  Diligence  that  was 
used  I  shall  send  a  Copy  of  them  hereafter  for  the 
Assemblys  Satisfaction,  not  Doubting  but  that  they 
will  approve  of  the  Application  and  Industry  therein 
tho'  the  Cause  had  unavoidably  been  attended  with 
Delay. 

And  I  assure  myself  that  the  House  will  readily 
grant  me  the  necessary  Supplys  (if  not  done  before 
this  comes  to  hand)  as  well  to  defray  the  Expence  of 
this  late  Suit  (on  which  there  is  a  large  Ballance  due 
to  me)  as  to  enable  me  in  their  behalf  to  carry  on 
their  other  Affairs  yet  depending  here,  particularly 
in  Parliam^  w'^.''  I  have  some  time  since  wrote  to  the 

1  The  boundaries  were  not  finally  determined  until  May,  1746.    See  Arnold,  History 
of  Rhode  Island,  II.  133, 134,  and  p.  xxiv  of  the  httroduction. 


294  Correspondence  of  the 

Govf  and  Dep  Gov!"  about.  That  Matter  which  is  the 
Bill  concerning  Paper  Currency  in  the  Plantations, 
is  not  yet  taken  up  in  the  House  of  Commons,  but 
I  think  it  certainly  will  be  shortly :  when  ever  it  is 
I  intend  to  Assert  the  Rights  and  Privilidges  of  the 
Colony,  and  be  Assured  that  no  Endeav?  nor  Money 
needfull  shall  be  wanting  in  serving  the  Colonys  In- 
terest to  the  best  of  my  Ability. 

And  now  I  woud  just  Intimate  that  the  late  Gov- 
ern"^  John  Wanton  in  his  Letter  to  me  of  the  i** 
December  1735  was  pleased  to  give  me  an  Assur- 
ance of  the  Assemblys  Benevolance  towards  me  when 
the  Boundary  Cause  was  over;^  I  shall  theretofore 
make  bold  just  to  remind  them  of  It;  and  leave  it 
to  their  Generosity  —  a  Copy  of  which  Letter  comes 
inclosed  the  Clause  beeing  marked  in  the  Margin, 
and  which  Doubtless  will  be  found  amongst  thee 
Records  of  Letters  in  that  Govern?  time. 

One  thing  more  I  think  I  may  with  Truth  say  that 
the  Affairs  of  Rhode  Island  Colony  under  my  Care 
depending  has  of  late  Years  been  as  much  or  more 
than  I  have  had  to  do  for  the  Province  of  Pennsyl- 
vania who  allow  me  ;!^ioo  Sterhng  a  Year  Clear  of 
all  Charges.  With  Due  Respects  to  the  Gentlemen 
of  the  House  I  remain 

Their  Faithful  Friend 

Rich?  Partridge 

As  soon  as  we  can  get  out  the  Order  of  the  King 
in  Council  under  the  privy  Seal  upon  the  Resolution 

1  See  letter  of  December  i,  1735. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       295 

and  Determination  of  the  Lords  Committee  I  shall 
send  it  over  to  Gov""  Green 

Xber  18 
P  S    The   War  continues  and  I  think  likely  to 
do,  tho'  some  imagine  we  shall  have  a  peace  by  the 
Spring :  we  have  had  a  pretty  deal  of  damage  done 
to  the  Shipping  lately  by  Stormy  Weather. 

the  King  of  Prussia  who  had  broke  out  again  ag^* 
the  Queen  of  Hungary  has  now  quitted  Prague  and 
all  Bohemia  and  gone  home  with  the  loss  of  about 
half  his  Army  and  a  part  of  the  Q.  of  Hungary's 
forces  has  entered  Siletia  and  probably  will  retake 
it.  Cap'  Jephson  is  here  and  I  suppose  intends  home 
as  soon  as  conveniently  he  can,  he  has  been  taken 
by  the  ffrench  and  as  he  was  coming  for  France  in 
a  S!  Dominga  Ship  was  taken  in  her  by  one  of  our 
Men  of  War. 

R  P 
I  write  this  to  Plym?  at  a  venture 

To  Joseph  Whipple  Esqf 

Deputy  Governour  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island 
and  Providence  Plantations. 


RICHARD    PARTRmGE    TO    GOVERNOR    GREENE. 

London  xber  the  27.  1 744 
Governour  Green 

Yesterday  I  received  thine  of  the  3  of  Novem!"  last 
and  duly  noted  the  contents.     I  see  the  Colony  are 


296  Correspondence  of  the 

sensibly  touched  with  the  attempt  lately  made  in 
Parliam'  on  the  Privilidges  of  their  Charter  by  the 
Bill  relating  to  Paper  Currency  which  to  be  sure 
very  nearly  affects  it,  and  that  besides  the  ;^i5o.^ 
sometime  since  granted  me  have  voted  and  ordered 
^550.^  Sterling  more  to  be  remitted  me  with  all  the 
care  and  Expedition  possible  for  w"*"  I  make  gratefull 
acknowledgm'^  and  Shall  be  expecting  it  soon  ac- 
cordingly, in  the  meantime  I  shall  exert  myself  in 
behalf  of  the  Colony  to  my  utmost  for  their  Interest 
w*"^  I  have  at  heart,  and  they  may  be  assured  that  no 
Cost  nor  Pains  shall  be  wanting  therein,  we  being 
furnished  as  I  apprehend  with  a  great  deal  of  good 
Argum*  for  opposing  the  Bill,  it  still  lays  dormant 
in  the  House  of  Commons  and  nothing  done  in  it 
this  Sessions  but  I  expect  it  will  be  taken  up  in  the 
House  when  the  Parliam*  meets  again  (Sometime 
next  month)  they  being  now  adjournd  to  the  lo'!" 
and  began  their  Session  the  16.  of  the  last  month. 

I  have  already  advised  thee  of  the  Issue  of  our 
Boundary  Cause  with  the  Massachusetts  by  the  Lords 
Committee  of  Council,^  which  was  determined  by 
conferring  the  Judgement  of  the  Comm?  without  any 
variation  after  a  pretty  hard  Struggle,  our  Counsel 
indeed  in  the  Course  of  their  Pleadings  insisted  on 
a  further  enlargem'  of  the  Boundarie  for  us,  as  they 
were  Instructed,  but  that  wo*^  not  be  granted,  yet 
what  we  have  got  I  hope,  will  be  acceptable  to  the 
Colony  on  which  Success  I  congratulate  them  hope- 

1  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  79. 

2  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  97,  and  letter  of  November  3,  1744. 
8  See  letter  of  xber  (December)  11,  1744. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       297 

ing  for  their  approbation,  for  a  more  particular 
acco!  of  the  Proceedings  before  the  Lords  Commit- 
tee (w'^''  held  4  Sittings  before  it  was  ended)  I  refer 
to  my  Letter  to  the  Assemly  herewith  Sent  thee 
for  them,  and  remain  with  due  Respects  to  thy  self 
and  the  Gentlemen  of  the  Council 

Thine  and  their  ffaithfull  Friend 

Rich?  Partridge 

as  for  Pub.  News  I  refer  thee  to  the  inclosed  Print 
and  diverse  and  other  sent  thee  in  a  Packett  to  my 
Fr'^  Andr  Oliver  of  Boston  to  be  forwarded  by  a 
Private  hand 

To  William  Green  Esqr 

Governour  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and 
Providence  Plantations 


THE    GENERAL    ASSEMBLY    TO   RICHARD   PARTRIDGE. 

Newport  Dec*.'  29'.''  1744 
yJ/r  Partridge, 

We  hope  that  by  this  Time  You  have  reef  the  In- 
structions ^  from  the  Colony  respecting  the  Bill  now 
in  Parliament  relating  to  Paper  Currency  and  as  the 
Government  are  determined  to  vindicate  their  Privi- 
ledges  which  they  think  that  Bill  should  it  pass  into 
a  Law  would  abridge  them  of,  You  shall  therefore 
[receive]  for  that  Purpose  by  this  Opportunity  in 
his  Majesty's  Ship  the  Eltham  Cap*  Philip  Durell 
Command'  One  Hundred  and  fifty  Ounces  of  Gold 
Dust,  One  of  the  Bills  of  Lading  for  the  same  You 

1  See  letter  of  November  3,  1744. 


298  Correspondence  of  the 

will  have  inclosed  to  You  from  Mf  Stephen  Green- 
leaf  of  Boston  by  Whom  from  hence  We  have  ordered 
it  to  be  Shipp'd  on  board  and  referr  You  to  the 
abovesaid  Instructions  and  are 

Your  Assured  Friends 

Endorsed : 

Copy  of  a  Lett!  to  the  Agent. 


GOVERNOR  SHIRLEY  TO  GOVERNOR  GREENE.^ 

Boston  Jan?  29  174^ 
Sir, 

Tho'  I  doubt  not  but  that  the  Interest  of  the 
Common  Cause  of  New  England  will  sufficiently 
animate  your  Governm^  to  exert  themselves  Vigor- 
ously in  the  Intended  Expedition  ag*  Louisbourg ;  ^ 
yet  I  would  beg  leave  to  add  that  the  Exposd  situa- 
tion of  your  Colony  by  sea,  and  the  resentment  of 
the  Enemy  ag!  it,  on  ace?  of  the  activeness  of  your 
privateers  make  it  particularly  probable  that  you  may 
have  a  sudden  Visit  from  the  French  this  summer,  if 
Cape  Briton  is  not  reduced 

The  Gentlemen,  who  deliver  this,  will  apprize  your 
Honour  how  essential  it  is  towards  our  succeeding 
in  this  Important  Affair,  that  we  should  have  a  Naval 
force  before  Louisburg  by  the  beginning  or  Middle 
of  March  at  furthest  to  cut  off  the  Enemy's  Provision 

1  Printed  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  74. 

2  For  an  account  of  the  part  taken  by  Rhode  Island  in  the  Louisbourg  expedition, 
see  p.  xxviii  of  the  lutrodudion.  Shirley's  plan  is  given  at  length  in  his  Mcmorajtdum, 
which  follows  this  letter. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       299 

Vessells  and  intercept  M""  Duvivier,  who  is  expected 
ab*  that  time  w^''  Recruits  for  the  Garrison,  w''.^  latter 
Event  must  be  so  killing  a  blow  to  the  People  of  the 
Town  and  Garrison,  that  it  could  not  fail  of  being 
decisive ;  and  they  will  also  let  you  know  what  this 
Governmt  has  done,  and  what  Applications  I  have 
made  towards  providing  such  a  Naval  force ;  I  hope 
therefore  you  will  not  fail  Exert  yourself  in  this 
respect.  They  will  further  inform  you  how  neces- 
sary it  is  that  we  should  have  a  proper  Train  of 
Artillery  w*".**  should  be  four  pieces  of  18  pf  Shot  to 
24  p'?,  of  w"!"  sort  we  have  not  sufficient  in  our  Castle, 
and  I  therefore  hope  you  will  contribute  your  Quota 
also  in  this  respect. 

I  doubt  not  but  our  united  force  vigorously  exerted 
upon  this  Occasion  in  conjunction  w'.^  his  Maj^.'^  other 
Neighbouring  Colonies  will  greet  w*^  success,  w''.'*  I 
hope  will  be  the  Event  of  this  Expedition  and  am 
Sir, 

Your  Honour's  most  Obedient  Humble  servant 

W  Shirley. 

Hon''!''  Govf  Green. 


Memorandum  for  an  Attack  upon  Louisburg} 

In  Order  for  the  Attacking  of  Louisbourg  this  Spring  by  Sur- 
prize, Its  proposed  that  3000  Troops  should  Embark  from  hence 
in  Sloops  and  Schooners  and  proceed  for  Canso,  well  Arm'd, 
which  should  be  the  place  of  Rendezvous,  it  being  within  20 
Leagues  of  Louisbourgh,  and  its  being  uncertain  that  so  many 
Vessels  should  be  Able  to  keep  Company  together ;  when  they 

1  Enclosed  in  Shirley's  letter  of  January  29,  1745. 


300  Correspondence  of  the 

are  all  Arrived  at  said  Port  to  take  a  favourable  Opportunity  to 
Sail  from  thence  in  Order  to  be  at  Galberous  Point  by  Dusk  from 
whence  it  is  but  3  Leagues  from  Louisburg  then  to  Push  into 
the  Bay  and  as  soon  as  said  Vessels  are  at  an  Anchor  to  Mann 
as  many  Whaleboats  as  they  have  and  Send  them  along  the 
Shore  as  near  as  possible  which  will  make  it  the  more  Difficult 
for  them  to  be  discovered,  and  when  they  come  to  the  Cove 
which  faces  the  low  part  of  the  Wall  there  to  Land  if  the  Sea  will 
permit  and  Scale  that  place  if  possible  and  if  otherwise,  as  the 
Wall  breaks  off  a  little,  on  the  other  Side  of  the  East  Gate,  not 
far  from  that  there  are  Pickets  put  for  a  Considerable  Distance 
across  a  Pond  over  to  the  Wall  on  the  Beach  on  the  other  Side 
of  the  Pond,  and  as  this  Pond  is  frozen  all  the  Month  of  March 
its  not  very  difficult  to  get  over  then,  but  if  the  Weather  will  not 
permit  their  Landing  in  the  above  place  let  them  proceed  along 
the  Shore  till  they  come  to  a  long  range  of  Rocks  that  goes 
towards  the  Island  at  the  End  of  which  is  a  Passage  where  the 
Shallops  go  thro',  let  them  go  in  there  and  follow  the  Ledge  of 
Rocks  right  back  again,  then  they  will  Land  right  against  the 
East  Gate  on  a  point  and  as  there  are  some  Houses  there  it  will 
hinder  their  being  Seen,  but  One  Boat  ought  to  go  first  and  Sup- 
prize  the  People  in  those  Houses  a  little  time  before  the  others 
come  up.  Each  Whaleboat  must  have  two  Ladders  in  them  of 
Fifteen  feet  long  which  may  be  put  in  the  Middle  of  the  Boat 
without  hindrance  to  the  Men,  but  the  Boatmen  must  lay  still  at 
this  point  till  they  think  the  Main  Body  is  got  near  the  Town, 
And  that  a  Party  of  as  many  Men  as  shall  be  Judg'd  proper  shall 
be  ready  to  Attack  the  Grand  Battery.  Its  Necessary  it  should 
be  low  Water  if  no  Drift  Ice  aground  along  the  Shore  for  the 
Remainder  of  the  Men  to  go  round  the  Pickets  that  are  by  the 
North  Gate  and  when  they  get  round  with  Ladders  of  15  feet 
long  they  can  Scale  the  Wall  facing  the  Harbour  which  is  a  Quar- 
ter of  a  Mile  round,  and  [it]  will  be  Absolutely  Necessary  to 
appoint  a  time  to  Strike  the  Blow  all  at  Once  which  can  be  done 
by  Agreeing  upon  a  Certain  hour  just  before  Day  which  is  the 
Sleepiest  time,  and  the  Commanding  Officer  of  each  Detachment 
to  know  the  time,  and  when  the  time  comes,  by  his  Watch  to 
begin  without  any  further  Ceremony,  The  Enemy  finding  them- 
selves Attack'd  at  so  many  different  places  at  Once  its  probable 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Islayid       301 

that  it  will  breed  such  Confusion  among  them  that  Our  Men  will 
have  time  to  get  in  Unmolested,  it  is  to  be  Observed  that  as  the 
Men  March  from  the  above  point  the  low  Wall  is  on  the  left 
hand  of  the  Gate  and  the  Pickets  on  the  right  hand ;  as  all  the 
Enemys  Troops  are  in  the  Citadel  except  a  Small  Guard  or  two 
it  will  be  a  Considerable  time  before  those  Men  are  Brest  and 
got  ready  to  March  out  and  even  then  it  is  quite  in  the  other 
End  of  the  Town. 

This  is  what  probably  may  Succeed  but  least  any  Accident 
should  happen  to  prevent  it,  it  will  be  Necessary  to  provide 
accordingly,  And  in  Case  Our  People  should  be  discovered  and 
Repulsed,  the  above  Number  of  Men  being  Sufficient  to  Com- 
mand the  Field,  it  will  be  Necessary  in  Order  to  reduce  the 
place  to  have  what  Shipping  can  be  possibly  got  to  Cruize  off 
the  Harbours  Mouth  to  Intercept  their  Provision  Vessels  which 
they  expect  Early  being  at  this  time  very  short  of  Provisions,  as 
likewise  to  take  any  Transports  with  Men  if  any  should  come, 
and  that  Our  Men  may  not  be  Discouraged  at  being  repulsed 
Once  it  will  be  Necessary  to  Send  12  Nine  Pounders  and  Two 
Small  Mortars  with  Shells  &c.  and  a  Quantity  of  Provisions  so 
to  Bombard  them  and  Endeavour  to  make  Breaches  in  their 
Walls  and  then  to  Storm  them,  and  should  the  Shipping  be  so 
lucky,  to  take  their  Provisions,  and  the  Land  forces  take  all 
their  Cattle  and  keep  them  Constantly  Employ'd,  it  will  be  im- 
possible for  them  to  hold  the  place  till  the  last  of  July  for  want 
of  Provissions. 

In  Order  the  better  to  Secure  the  Retreat  in  Case  a  Superiour 
Naval  Force  to  Ours  should  come  from  France  and  drive  Ours 
off  the  Coast  and  We  not  take  the  place  which  I  do  not  think 
there  is  any  danger  off,  it  will  be  Necessary  to  leave  Two  Small 
Vessels  with  about  Two  Hundred  Men  at  Canso  and  the  Day 
after  the  Fleet  is  Sailed  for  Louisbourg  for  them  to  Sail  so  as  to 
get  in  by  Night  and  it  being  but  Six  Leagues  from  Canso  to  S, 
Peters  they  can  get  there  before  Day  and  Surprize  that  place 
which  is  an  exceeding  good  Harbour  for  Small  Vessels  but  has 
not  Water  Sufficient  for  Vessels  of  that  Size  which  will  be  able 
to  drive  Ours  off  the  Coast,  so  that  the  Vessels  for  the  Retreat 
will  lay  there  Safe  and  the  Troops  be  Able  to  go  to  them  by 
Land,  there  will  be  an  Advantage  besides  this  in  Surprizing  this 


302  Correspondence  of  the 

place  as  there  is  always  a  Number  of  Indians  with  their  Familys 
which  keep  with  a  French  Priest  at  a  Small  Distance  from  the 
French  Inhabitants  and  the  Booty  taken  there  will  pay  the  Ex- 
pence  and  more  in  taking  it,  it  is  to  be  Observed  that  during  the 
time  that  Our  Troops  lay  Siege  to  the  Town  it  will  be  in  their 
power  to  Send  Partys  and  Destroy  all  their  Fishery  on  the  Island, 
as  well  as  the  North  Side  of  the  Harbour,  w'^  would  ruin  Their 
Fishery  for  Four  or  Five  Years  and  as  it  is  impossible  to  fail  of 
taking  the  Royal  Battery  at  least,  that  would  in  a  great  Measure 
lay  open  their  Harbour  Expos'd  unto  an  Attack  by  Sea  from 
England,  as  the  New  Batteries  in  the  Town  in  the  greatest  part 
of  the  Ambrozers  there  are  no  Guns  and  there  are  two  Gates  that 
are  made  in  Diamond  Fashion  facing  the  Harbour  that  can  be 
beat  down  in  an  Instant,  the  peices  not  being  but  2  Inches  and  a 
half  thick. 

N  B  The  full  Complement  of  the  Troops  is  700,  out  of  which 
Deductions  must  be  made  of  50  for  each  of  the  two  Batterys 
Vizt.  The  Royal  and  Island  Batterys  and  50  for  Death  Sickness 
&c.  which  Reduce  them  to  550,  and  the  Other  Fighting  Men  in 
the  Town  do  not  exceed  300.  and  that  the  Swiss  Troops  which 
are  their  best  Troops  are  exceeding  Discontented  and  mutinous, 
also  that  at  S'  Peters  there  may  be  about  200  Men  in  Scatter'd 
Houses  and  in  the  Suburbs  of  the  Town  of  Louisburg  without 
the  Walls  about  200.  It  is  improbable  that  more  than  two  30  or 
40  Gunships  Transports  should  come  with  M'  Duvivier  who  may 
be  expected  the  first  with  Recruits  and  Supplies,  and  in  Case  the 
Naval  Force  that  comes  should  be  Superior  to  Our  Naval  Force, 
that  Our  3000  Men  would  Command  the  Field  and  Continue  so 
till  they  could  be  protected  and  reinforced  from  England. 

Ex-i 

N.  B.  It  is  a  mistake  to  think  that  9  pounders  are  sufficient 
to  batter  the  Walls  of  Louisburg. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        303 

GOVERNOR   SHIRLEY   TO   GOVERNOR   GREENE. 

Boston  January  29.  174I. 

This  goes  by  Express  to  inform  your  Honour  that 
Petitions  haveing  been  prefer'd  by  a  considerable 
Number  of  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Province  to  the 
General  Court  here  representing  the  present  weak 
State  of  Louisbourg,  and  the  great  Importance  of 
the  Reduction  of  that  place  to  the  Obedience  of  his 
Majesty;  And  a  general  Disposition  Appearing  in 
the  People  to  engage  in  this  Service,  I  recommended 
the  deliberate  Consideration  of  this  Affair  to  the 
General  Assembly,  who  by  their  Committee  exam- 
ined a  great  number  of  Persons,  who  have  been 
Traders  or  Prisoners  in  that  place,  and  have  known 
it  both  in  Peace  and  War,  some  of  whom  came  from 
thence  in  the  beginning  of  this  Winter;  This  Ex- 
amination which  was  had  before  a  large  Committee 
of  both  Houses  has  been  so  very  critical  and  exact 
as  to  take  up  divers  days  in  the  prosecuting  of  it ; 
The  Result  of  which  is  a  chearful  and  almost  unani- 
mous Resolution  of  the  Court  to  undertake  this  im- 
portant Business  in  such  Manner  as  is  perticularly 
Expressed  in  the  Report  of  the  Committee  Accepted 
by  the  whole  Court ;  which  I  herewith  inclose ;  ^  and 
wherein  you  will  find  this  Affair  is  undertaken  by 
us  in  full  Confidence  and  Expectation  that  all  his 
Majesty's  Governments  in  North  America  who  are 
concerned  in  Duty  and  Interest  as  well  as  we,  will 
readily  join  with  us  in  so  laudable  [a]   Design  for 

1  See  the  following  document. 


304  Correspondence  of  the 

the  Honour  of  his  Majesty,  and  the  Safety  of  the 
Trade  and  Navigation  of  all  those  Colonies  and  Pro- 
vinces ;  And  our  Expectation  herein  will  Appear  the 
more  reasonable,  if  it  be  considered  what  Pains  and 
Charge  this  Government  hath  been  at  alone  for  save- 
ing  his  Majesty's  Interest  at  Annapolis  Royal  and  in 
the  Province  of  Nova  Scotia ;  ^  I  must  therefore  ear- 
nestly desire  that  all  may  be  done  that  is  possible  to 
engage  your  Colony  to  do  their  full  part  in  Concert 
with  us  for  Carrying  on  this  Expedition  and  that 
you  either  join  us  or  soon  follow  us  with  a  sufficient 
force  both  for  the  land  and  Sea  Service ;  And  as  the 
Success  of  this  Affair  depends  much  upon  Dispatch, 
I  doubt  not  but  you  will  use  it :  I  have  proposed  to 
the  Ministry  in  Great  Brittain  the  Undertaking  of 
this  Design  and  earnestly  urg'd  it  as  of  great  impor- 
tance to  the  Crown  and  the  Safety  of  his  Majestys 
Subjects  in  all  these  parts  before  I  had  any  thoughts 
of  the  Thing's  being  Attempted  in  this  way ;  And  I 
shall  now  write  Pressingly  by  the  first  Conveyances 
both  to  the  Ministry  at  home  and  to  the  Command- 
ers of  the  Squadrons  in  the  West  Indies  to  send  a 
Naval  force  to  meet  us  and  support  us  in  our  Design: 
I  have  ordered  an  Imbargo  of  all  Vessells  whatsoever 
And  have  Seized  all  the  Frenchmen  among  us,  and 
have  endeavoured  to  have  them  kept  under  such  Safe 
Custody  as  to  prevent  them  from  sending  any  Intel- 


1  Upon  Major  Mascarene's  representation  of  the  danger  threatening  Annapolis, 
Shirley  had  induced  the  Assembly  of  Massachusetts  to  raise  a  company  of  two  hun- 
dred men,  who  were  sent  to  his  relief.  Hutchinson,  History  of  Massachusetts  Bay, 
n.  405.     See  Mascarene's  letter,  p.  265. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       305 

ligence :    The  same  Measures  will  be  Necessary  (as 
I  apprehend)  in  your  Government.^ 

I  am  sir 
Your  Honour's  most  Obedient,  Humble  servant 

W  Shirley. 

To  The  Hon^!*  Governour  Green 


Report  of  the  Committee  of  the  Massachusetts  House  of  Representa- 
tives} 

Province  of  the  Massachusetts  Bay 

The  Committee  of  both  Houses  upon  the  Subject  of  his  Ex- 
cellency's Messages  of  the  19'?  and  22?  Instant  make  the  follow- 
ing Report. 

That  they  have  been  Attended  by  two  Gentlemen  who  have 
lately  been  Prisoners  at  Louisburg  and  by  others  who  have  been 
Traders  there  and  who  are  well  acquainted  with  the  Place,  from 
whom  the  Committee  have  received  Information  that  the  Garri- 
son there  does  not  consist  of  more  than  five  or  Six  Hundred 
Regular  Troops  and  that  there  are  not  above  three  or  four  hun- 
dred fighting  Men  of  the  Inhabitants,  That  they  have  but  a  small 
Stock  of  Provisions,  that  they  have  no  Vessels  of  Force  in  their 
Harbour,  and  that  the  Place  is  at  this  Time  less  capable  of  being 
defended  against  an  Attack  than  its  Probable,  it  will  ever  be 
hereafter. 

The  Committee  therefore  are  of  Opinion  that  it  is  incumbent 
upon  this  Government  to  embrace  this  Favourable  Opportunity 
to  Attempt  the  Reduction  thereof :  And  they  humbly  Propose 
that  His  Excellency  the  Cap*  General  be  desired  to  give  forth 
his  Proclamation  to  Encourage  the  Enlistment  of  Three  thou- 
sand Voluntiers  under  such  Proper  Officers  as  he  shall  appoint. 
That  each  Person  so  enlisting  be  allowed  Twenty  five  Shillings 
per  Month  and  that  there  be  delivered  to  Each  man  a  Blanket : 

1  See  Governor  Greene's  letter  to  the  House  of  Deputies,  February  5,  1745. 

2  Enclosed  in  Shirley's  second  letter  of  January  29,  1745. 


3o6  Correspondence  of  the 

That  one  Month's  Pay  be  advanced  and  that  they  be  entitul'd 
to  the  Plunder.  That  Provision  be  made  for  the  furnishing  of 
necessary  Warlike  Stores  for  the  Expedition.  That  four  Month's 
Provisions  be  laid  in.  That  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  pro- 
cure and  fit  vessels  to  serve  as  Transports  to  be  ready  to  depart 
by  the  beginning  of  March,  and  that  a  suitable  Naval  Force  be 
provided  for  their  Convoy  as  this  Court  shall  hereafter  Order. 
That  Application  be  forthwith  made  to  the  Governments  of  New 
York,  Pensilvania,  New  Hampshire,  Connecticut,  and  Rhode 
Island  to  furnish  their  respective  Quotas  of  Men  and  Vessels  to 
Accompany  or  follow  the  Forces  of  this  Province. 

In  the  Name  and  by  Order  of  the  Committee 

W'^'  Pepperell 


Resolution  of  the  House  of  Representatives  of  Massachusetts} 

Province  of  the  Massachusetts  Bay 

In  the  House  of  Represenf'f*  JanT  29.  174I. 

Voted  that  Thomas  Hutchinson  Esq.  be  desired  forthwith  to 
repair  to  the  Government  of  Rhode  Island,  and  in  the  Name  and 
behalf  of  this  Government  to  do  all  in  his  Power  to  prevail  on  that 
Government  or  the  Governour  there  to  furnish  and  assist  the 
intended  Expedition  against  Cape  Breton  with  as  large  a  Land 
and  Sea  Force  as  possible,  and  that  all  imaginable  Dispatch  be 
given  in  this  Affair. 


GOVERNOR    GREENE    TO    THE    HOUSE    OF    DEPUTIES. 

February  5'.''  A  D.  I74|. 

Gentlemen  of  the  House  of  Deputies 

The  only  Reson  of  my  calling  you  together  at  this 
Juncture  was  an  Express  I  Rec*^  on  the  first  of  this 

1  Enclosed  in  Shirley's  second  letter  of  January  29,  1745. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        307 

Instant  from  his  Excellency  Gov''  Shirley/  concern- 
ing an  Intended  Expedition  ;  against  Louisburg ;  by 
which  I  am  informed  that  province  has  already  or- 
dered a  proclamation  to  be  issued  forth,  with  proper 
Incoragement  for  the  Inlistment  of  three  thousand 
Volunteirs  to  be  ready  to  proceed  upon  the  Intended 
Expedition,  by  the  first  of  March  next  and  his  Ex- 
cellency is  pleased  further  to  inform  me  that  their 
General  Court  have  ordered  that  Application  shall 
be  forthwith  made  to  New  York  Pensylvania,  New 
Hampshire,  and  Connecticut,  as  well  as  to  this  Col- 
ony for  their  assistance  therein,  and  Earnestly  desires 
that  this  Colony  will  do  their  full  part  or  proportion 
both  with  men  and  Naval  force,  in  Concert  with 
them  for  Carrying  on  said  Expedition,  Either  by 
joining  their  Forces,  or  soon  following  them,  as  You 
will  see  by  the  papers  herewith  presented. 

Gentlemen. 

I  Recommend  the  whole  affair  to  your  wise  Con- 
sideration, and  doubt  not  but  you  will  do  every  thing 
in  this  important  affair  that  you  in  your  wisdom 
shall  judge  most  for  the  Honor  and  Interest  of  this 
Colony  ^ 

I  am  Gentlemen 

Your  Most  Obedient  Humble  Servant 

W.  Greene  Gov*" 


1  See  Shirley's  two  letters  of  January  29,  1745,  with  accompanying  documents. 

2  For  the  proceedings  of  the  Assembly  in  answer  to  Shirley's  appeal,  see  Col.  Rec. 
of  R.  /.,  V.  100,  102  ;  and  also  Greene's  letter  of  February  8,  1745. 


3o8  Correspondence  of  the 

RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR   GREENE. 

London  12^  month  61'  day  174^. 
Govern''.  Green 

I  advised  Thee  some  time  since  that  a  renewed 
Application  had  been  made  to  the  King  in  Council 
here  pursuant  to  the  Colonys  former  Address  for 
Cannon  and  Stores  for  your  Fortification  and  since 
that  I  reced  from  the  Deputy  Govern'  a  Fresh  Ad- 
dress on  that  Subject;  I  sent  over  a  Copy  of  the 
Report  of  the  Bo^  of  Ordinance  and  Estimate  some 
time  since  ^  which  I  hope  has  been  received,  and 
tho'  I  have  not  wrote  much  since  if  any  thing  at  all 
about  it,  yet  I  have  not  been  negligent  in  prosecut- 
ing the  Application.  I  was  sent  for  to  attend  the 
Lords  Committee  yesterday  upon  it  who  were  desir- 
ous to  inform  themselves  pretty  fully  about  the  State 
and  Nature  of  the  Case  which  I  had  a  fair  Oppor- 
tunity to  do  and  which  I  hope  was  in  some  measure 
Satisfactory ;  But  in  as  much  as  the  Board  of  Ordi- 
nance took  Notice  in  their  Report  that  they  had  no 
Plan  nor  Profile  of  the  Fort,  they  were  not  compe- 
tent Judges  about  it  &c*  so  the  Lords  of  the  Com- 
mittee were  not  willing  to  do  anything  in  it  'till 
such  a  Plan  came  over  with  a  Certificate  along  with 
it  (and  as  I  apprehended)  It  shou'd  be  under  the 
hands  of  the  Govern!"  and  Surveyor,  somewhat  agree- 
able to  the  inclosed  Paper  sent  herewith  to  thee  as 
a  Form  to  write  by,  let  it  also  be  inserted  what  N° 
of  Cannon  you  have  already,  which  I  have  intimated 
to  them  was  about   12   Old   Ones  almost  unfitt  for 

i  Enclosed  in  letter  of  Sber  (October)  12,  1744. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       309 

Service  (as  I  was  Informed)  and  24  New  Cannon 
which  I  sent  over  at  the  Cost  of  the  Colony  and  also 
whereabouts  it  is  intended  to  place  these  20  Cannon 
now  proposed  to  be  sent  You  and  how  Accommo- 
dated. These  things  I  find  are  requisite  and  when 
that  is  Done  and  sent  me  which  sho'^  be  speedily, 
there  seems  to  be  Encouragem!  from  the  Lords  Com- 
mittee for  the  Colony  to  have  their  Request  Granted. 
In  the  Course  of  the  Application  there  was  a  neces- 
sity of  Specifying  the  quantity  of  Cannon ;  as  that 
was  not  mentioned  in  either  of  the  Addresses  — 
which  was  the  reason  of  asking  for  20  only,  least  the 
Demand  shou'd  have  run  too  high  in  the  Estimate. 

12  month  the  8'." 

Since  the  foregoing  I  have  been  surprised  very 
much  by  being  Inform'd  by  the  Clerk  of  the  Council 
that  the  Massachusetts  Agent  had  presented  a  Peti- 
tion to  the  Lords  President  against  the  Lords  Com- 
mittees Judgement^  and  Report  upon  our  Hearings 
in  the  Cause  of  the  Boundarys,  desiring  that  before 
it  was  Confirmed  by  the  King  in  Council  something 
further  might  be  considered  upon  it  and  praying  for 
a  Review  that  is  in  short  for  a  New  Commission  to 
be  Issued  for  a  Rehearing  beyond  Sea,  for  they  knew 
it  was  impossible  to  have  it  Reheard  here  and  have 
got  One  of  the  Lords  of  the  Committee  to  Counti- 
nance  them  as  I  am  Informed  —  which  is  a  thing 
hardly  ever  heard  of  before  after  such  a  Solemn 
hearing  as  has  been  in  this  Cause  —  and  this  they 

1  Against  the  judgment  given  in  December,  1744,  by  which  the  decision  of  the  Com- 
mission of  1741  was  confirmed. 


3IO  Correspondence  of  the 

have  Clandestinely  and  Artfully  contrived  to  evade 
Justice,  but  we  are  preparing  to  be  even  with  them 
if  possible  and  hope  we  shall  Render  their  Contriv- 
ances ineffectual.     More  of  this  in  my  next  from 
Thy  Assured  Friend 

R^  Partridge 

But  this  Opposition  of  theirs  will  run  us  to  more 
Charge  and  no  Remittance  come  yet 

I  wrote  to  thee  also  of  the  I4'^  and  I6'^  ditto  via 
New  Castle 

1st  month  or  March  25'.''  1745 

There  has  been  no  general  Council  held  lately  so 
that  the  Affair  of  the  Lords  Comittees  Judgm!  and 
Report  concerning  the  Boundary  Cause  lyes  as  it 
did,  but  the  Measures  we  have  taken  may  probably 
end  it  in  Soliciting  most  of  the  Lords  of  the  Com- 
mittee Seperately,  particularly  the  Lord  S whom 

I  may  call  the  Massach*?  advocate  with  whom  I  had 
a  fair  opportunity  and  a  pretty  deal  of  discourse 
wherein  I  endeavourd  to  take  off  the  edge  of  the 
prejudice  he  had  imbibed  ag'*  our  Colony  and  set 
forth  the  unreasonableness  and  inconveniencys  w"^ 
woud  attend  such  a  president  as  was  Petitiond  for 
by  our  Adversarys  in  Postponing  their  Lordships 
Report  after  Such  a  Solemn  Hearing  &c^  and  laid 
before  the  Lords  Committee  afterwards  when  they 
were  sitting  my  Petition  to  them  touching  this  Mat- 
ter (a  Copy  whereof  I  have  already  Sent  thee)  and 
that  I  hope  upon  the  whole  we  shall  be  able  to  baffle 
our  Atagonists,  however  I  intend  to  leave  no  stona 
unturned  to  do  it. 


Colo7tial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        311 

As  for  the  Paper  Currency  Bill  depending  in  the 
House  of  Commons  it  lays  dormant  yet  and  nothing 
at  all  proceeded  on  hitherto.^  the  House  have  at 
present  their  hands  full  of  business  before  them  of 
more  Moment,  particularly  that  of  the  Miscarriage  of 
the  Sea  Engagem*  with  the  French  and  Spaniards 
last  years  which  they  are  very  intent  upon  enquiring 
into  the  Cause  of  it  by  examining  of  Admiral  Lestock 
and  the  Sea  Officers.^ 

All  the  Powers  at  War  are  making  great  prepara- 
tions this  Spring  for  prosecuting  the  War,  and  its 
expected  there  will  be  actually  War  proclaimed  be- 
tween the  French  and  the  Dutch  very  Shortly,  for 
the  rest  I  refer  to  the  Prints  inclosed  and  those  w^*" 
I  send  to  Andy  Oliver  of  Boston  for  thee  and  remain 
with  Respects  to  thy  Self  and  the  Gentlemen  of  the 
Council  and  House  of  Representatives 

Thine  and  their  assured  faithfull  ffriend 

Rich'^  Partridge 

the  matter  of  Lockman  lyes  intirely  dormant  still. 
I  shall  be  expecting  from  the  Colony  a  Plan  of  their 
Fortific^  &c.  for  me  the  better  to  obtain  the  Cannon 

&c.   I  del"?  Lord  S s  when  I  was  with  him  a  Copy 

of  that  very  good  Letter  which  the  Colony  wrote  to 
the  Lords  of  Trade  and  Plantations  of  the  19.  Jan'T 
1740.^  for  his  Information  of  the  State  of  Colonys 
Case  as  they  are  Circumstanced  in  general,  w^''  I 
hope  had  a  good  effect,  having  heard  nothing  Since 

^  See  letter  of  November  3,  1744. 

2  See  note  to  letter  of  February  23,  1744. 

3  See  the  document  printed  as  of  that  date,  on  p.  131.     Lord  Sandys  was  the  man 
whose  interest  it  was  desired  to  secure. 


312  Correspondence  of  the 

of  his  Stirring  against  us,  but  to  be  Sure  he  argued 
ag^.*  us  before  as  if  he  had  been  retained  as  Counsel 
for  the  Massach*.^  by  what  I  was  informed. 

27'?  ditto 

Since  the  foregoing  I  have  obtained  a  Copy  of  the 
late  long  Petition  of  the  Massach^^  Agent  to  the 
Lords  Committee  against  their  Judgm*  and  Report 
of  which  I  herewith  send  the  a  Copy  where  by  thou 
willt  see  their  Artfull  Contrivance;  which  Petition 
we  Shall  obviate  if  Possible  in  order  to  get  it  set 
aside  but  it  may  be  some  time  yet  do  what  we  can 
for  it  has  not  yet  been  read  before  the  Lords. 

R  P. 

To  William  Green  Esqf 

Governour  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and 
Providence  Plantations 


GOVERNOR  GREENE  TO  GOVERNOR  SHIRLEY. 

Warwick  Feb?  8*!"  1 74^ 

upon  Receiving  your  Excellencies  Letter^  Con- 
cerning the  Expedition  against  Louisburg  I  emedi- 
ately  Called  our  Gen"  Assembly  and  Communicated 
the  whole  affare  to  them  in  the  best  Manner  I  and 
his  Majesties  Counsell  Could,  and  M'  Hutchinson 
who  Represented  your  province  very  presingly  Urged 
the  affare  in  our  Lower  house  and  after  a  long  and 
Tedious    Debate    thereon   they   have   ordered,    130 

1  Of  January  29,  1745. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       313 

men  to  be  Raised  as  Vollunteirs  and  our  Country 
Sloop  to  be  equiped^  in  ord^  to  be  ready  to  Join 
Your  fources  by  the  Sixth  Day  of  march  next,  but 
have  not  ordered  any  land  fources,  notwithstanding 
the  upper  house  Sundery  times  earnestly  Insisted 
upon  it 

I  am  S'  Your  Humble  Servant 

W¥  Greene 

To  his  Exelency  Gov'  Shirley 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR    GREENE. 

London  12  month  q*  \'j\\. 
Gov''.  Green 

Since  I  sent  away  my  pack*  for  thee  of  yesterday  I 
found  I  had  left  out  this  paper  on  the  other  Side, 
w'^''  I  then  intended  to  inclose,  as  something  of  a 
Form  to  be  certified  properly  and  tackd  to  the  Plan 
of  the  Fort  to  be  sent  me.  and  inclosed  is  like- 
wise a  Copy  of  the  order  of  the  Lords  Comittee  ^ 
from 

Thy  assured  Fr*^ 

R^  Partridge 

To  WiLL^^  Green  Esq' 

Governour  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and 
Providence  Plantations 


1  See  Col.  Rec.  ofR.  I.,  V.  loo. 

8  See  Partridge's  letter  of  February  6,  1745,  ^"'^  *^^  ^^^  documents  next  following. 


314  Correspondence  of  the 


FORM  OF  A  PETITION  TO  THE  LORDS  OF  TRADE.^ 

To  the  Right  Honble  the  Lords  Committee  of  his  Majes*\'  most  Honble 
Privy  Council  for  Plantation  Affairs. 

The  Representation  of  the  Gov^  and  Compa :  of  His  Majestys 
Colony  of  Kh*?  Isl*?  and  Providence  Plantations  in  America  hum- 
bly Sheweth 

That  M";  Richard  Partridge  our  Agent  at  the  Court  of  Great 
Britain  hath  informed  us  that  he  hath  again  lately  made  Applica- 
tion to  his  Majesty  in  Council  upon  our  humble  Address  to  his 
Majesty  for  the  Grant  of  a  Number  of  Cannon  towards  compleat- 
ing  our  Fortification  which  we  have  built  at  the  Entrance  of  our 
Harbour  of  Newport  in  this  Colony — and  that  your  Lordships 
had  been  pleased  to  refer  that  matter  to  the  Office  of  Ordinance 
for  their  Report  and  that  a  Report  together  with  an  Estimate  had 
been  thereupon  made  of  8  Cannon  of  24  pounders,  and  12  Can- 
non of  18  pounders  with  50  Round  of  Shot  and  other  Necessarys 
belonging  thereto.  But  that  in  as  much  as  a  plan  of  our  s"?  For- 
tification was  wanting  and  found  Necessary  to  have  been  taken 
and  sent  over  to  your  Lordships  before  any  thing  could  be  done 
in  that  behalf, 

We  do  therefore  represent  to  your  Lordships  that  we  have 
caused  an  Accurate  plan  of  our  said  Fortification  to  be  taken  by 
a  proper  Surveyor  certified  by  the  GovernF  of  our  said  Colony  and 
the  s?  Surveyor  under  our  common  Seal,  which  is  hereunto  an- 
nexed 

The  Cannon  proposed  for  us  by  the  said  Estimate  of  which  we 
have  received  a  Copy  from  our  said  Agent  are  of  a  due  Size  and 
Justly  proportion'd  as  well  as  the  other  things  necessary  belong- 
ing thereto. 

We  begg  leave  on  this  Occasion  to  lay  before  your  Lordships 
our  Dangerous  Situation  during  this  war  time,  laying  open  and 
Exposed  to  the  Invasion  of  the  Enemy  more  than  almost  any 
other  Colony  on  the  Continent  and  being  a  Frontier  to  the  pro- 
vince of  the  Massachusetts  Bay. 

That  we  have  laid  out  ^10,000  of  our  Currency  which  makes 

1  Enclosed  in  Partridge's  letter  of  12  mo.  (February)  9,  1745. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        3 1 5 

in  Sterling  between  3  and  ^4000  in  erecting  our  Fort  besides 
about  Seven  hundred  pounds  in  the  purchase  of  some  great  Gunns, 
which  considering  the  smallness  of  our  Colony  has  been  a  very 
great  Burthen  upon  the  Inhabitants 

That  the  s*?  Fort  requiring  at  least  20  more  Cannon  with  Stores 
proper  for  them,  the  Expence  of  which  being  more  than  this  pro- 
vince can  afford  to  lay  out, 

And  as  his  Majesty  has  been  pleased  to  Extend  his  Bounty  to 
the  Neighbouring  Colonys  perticularly  to  that  large  One  of  the 
Massachusetts  Bay  by  granting  'em  a  Quantity  of  Cannon  and 
Mortars  amounting  to  about  ^^487 7, 

It  is  therefore  humbly  prayed  that  your  Lordships  will  be  pleased 
to  recommend  the  Distrest  Case  of  this  Colony  to  the  King  that 
we  may  not  be  Distinguised  as  the  only  Colony  to  which  his 
Majesty's  Royal  Bounty  has  not  been  extended. 


At  the  Council  Chamber  Whitehall  ^ 
the  5'!"  Day  of  February  174^. 

By  a  Committee  of  the  Lords  of  his  Majesty's  most  honourable  Privy 
Council  for  Plantation  Affairs  — 

The  Lords  of  the  Committee  this  Day  took  into  Consideration 
a  Report  made  by  the  Board  of  Ordnance  on  the  Petition  of  Rich- 
ard Partridge  Agent  for  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and  Provi- 
dence Plantations  praying  for  a  Supply  of  Canon  consisting  of 
eight  24  Pounders  and  twelve  18  Pounders  with  Shot  and  Stores 
Proportionable  for  the  Protection  and  Defence  of  the  said  Col- 
ony. And  their  Lordships  observing  that  the  said  Board  have 
reported  that  as  they  have  no  Plan  or  Profit  of  their  Fort  they  are 
not  competent  Judges  whether  the  Number  and  Nature  of  Guns 
demanded  are  either  proper,  sufficient  or  necessary  for  the  same, 
The  Lords  of  the  Com'?"  do  therefore  hereby  order  that  the  s? 
Agent  write  over  for  an  exact  Plan  of  the  said  Fort  and  that  he 
do  lay  the  said  Plan  before  this  Committee  when  he  shall  have 
received  the  same 

W.  Sharpe 

1  Enclosed  in  Partridge's  letter  of  12  mo.  (February)  9, 1745. 


3i6  Correspondence  of  the 

RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    GOVERNOR    GREENE. 

London  12  month  the  14.  i74f. 
Gov^.  Green 

My  last  to  thee  was  of  the  8'!"  Inst^  wherein  I 
advised  thee  that  the  Massach*^  Agent  had  lodgd  a 
Petition  to  the  Lord  Presid'  in  order  to  Stop  the 
Judgmm!  and  Report  of  the  Lords  Committee  for 
fixing  the  Boundary  w*"^  according  to  the  Constant 
practice  of  Proceedings  here  I  did  not  in  the  least 
doubt  wo*?  have  soon  been  confirmed  by  the  King  in 
Council,  but  so  it  is  and  the  said  Pet°  must  now  be 
read  before  the  said  V.^f  Committee  before  any  thing 
be  further  done  upon  it.  w''''  Petition  I  hope  will  be 
rejected  and  that  we  may  be  even  with  our  Oppon'* 
and  Counter  plot  them  if  we  can ;  I  have  been  at 
the  Duke  of  Dorsets  the  new  Presid*  and  delivered  a 
Petition  and  an  other  also  to  Lord  Ch.  Justice  Willes, 
with  whom  I  had  a  fair  opportunity  of  informing  him 
of  the  Artful  and  Clandestine  Endeav?  used  by  the 
Massach*'  in  the  Case,  w''''  am  in  hopes  we  may  Suc- 
ceed in,  however  no  stone  shall  be  left  unturnd  in 
behalf  of  the  Colony  therein  but  it  will  be  attended 
still  with  more  Expence  and  no  Remittances  yet  come 
to  my  hand,  a  Copy  of  my  s'?  Petition  comes  inclosed, 
from 

Thy  assured  Friend 

RiCH^  Partridge 

Inclosed  is  also  a  Copy  of  the  Estimate  of  the 
Board  of  Ordinance^  and  also  of  the  Lords  Comit- 
tees  order  about  the  plan  that  is  wanting  mentiond 
in  my  sf  Letter  of  the  8'^ 

1  See  p.  309.  3  These  documents  will  be  found  on  pp.  314,  315,  respectively. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       317 

16'?  ditto 

Since  the  above  I  have  been  with  Lord  Sandys 
(who  was  at  most  of  the  Committees  when  our  Bound^ 
Cause  was  heard)  and  d'd  him  a  Copy  of  my  Petition 
above  mentioned  and  talkd  to  him  pretty  fully  on  the 
affair  w^^  I  hope  will  be  of  Service  to  us. 

R  P. 

As  to  Publick  News  it  was  expected  that  the  death 
of  the  Emperor  of  Germ^  wo"^  occasion  consid^!^  alter- 
ations in  the  face  of  Publick  Affairs  but  what  that 
will  be  I  dont  find  any  Body  yet  knows  ^ 

To  William  Green  Esqy 

Governour  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and 
Providence  Plantations 


PETITION    OF    RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    THE    LORDS    OF    THE 
PRIVY    COUNCIL.^ 

To  the  Right  Ho?t''^f  the  Lords  of  the  Cotn"?  of  his  Ma*".'  most  Hon!']' 
Privy  Council  for  hearing  Appeals  from  the  Plantations. 

The  humble  Petition  of  Richard  Partridge  Agent  for,  and  on 
Behalf  of,  his  Maj'?^  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence 
Plantations. 

Sheweth  That,  from  the  Date  and  Creation  of  the  s*^  very  small 
Colony,  it  hath  had  a  Contest,  touching  it's  Eastern  Boundarys, 
with  their  powerful  Neighbours,  of  the  great  Province  of  the 
Mass!'  Bay ;  Who,  by  their  Might  and  Numbers,  have  encroached 
upon  every  Province,  adjacent  to  them,  (his  Ma'^°  own  province 
not  excepted). 

That,  after  numberless  Attempts  and  an  exceeding  great  Ex- 
pence  in  order  to  settle  the  s?  Eastern  Boundary,  Rhode  Isl?  in 

1  The  Emperor  Charles  VII.  died  on  January  20. 

2  Enclosed  in  letter  of  February  14,  1745. 


3i8  Corresponde7ice  of  the 

April  1734.  very  near  eleven  years  ago,  was  necessitated  most 
humbly  to  petition  his  Ma*7  in  Council  to  determine  the  s"^  Bound- 
ary, on  which  Occasion,  the  Lords  of  Trade  reported,  on  the  10'.'' 
of  May  1738  (amongst  other  things)  that  this  Matter  had  been 
contested,  at  different  times,  ever  since  the  year  1664.  And  their 
L?Ships  also  ment*^  the  Inconveniences  that  might  arise,  for  want 
of  a  final  Settlem',  in  the  Matter. 

That  after  every  repeated  Opposition,  which  the  Mass*  cou'd 
possibly  give,  (some  of  w'^.''  were  reported  by  this  most  Honble 
Board,  frivolous  and  vexatious,  and  as  such  were  dismist,  and 
w'.*^  appeared  to  be  such  very  extraordinary  Applications,  that 
they  produced  a  new  Regulation,  at  your  Lordships  Board,  in 
Order  to  check  such  improper  Applications  for  the  future)  upon 
the  4'.''  of  Septf  1740.  his  Ma'?°  Comm"  issued,  under  the  great 
Seal,  Authorising  sundry  Comm?  to  Adjust  and  determine  the 
s?  Eastern  Boundary,  with  Liberty  to  either  Party  to  appeal,  from 
the  Comm?  Determination,  to  his  Ma'.^  in  Council. 

That,  on  the  30'.''  of  June  1741.  after  many  long,  full  and  most 
expensive  Hearings,  the  Comm"  in  America,  made  a  Determi- 
nation, and,  after  Time  allowed,  to  consider  thereof,  the  Mass* 
Agents  there,  entered  an  Appeal  to  his  Maj'?',  from  the  same,  as 
likewise  did  Rhode  Island,  from  several  parts  of  the  s?  Deter- 
mination. 

And,  the  Rhode  Island  Appeal  from  the  s'!  Determination,  by 
Order  in  Co"  of  the  28*.'^  of  July  1742,  and  the  Mass*  Appeal, 
by  another  Order,  of  the  2?  of  Septf  following,  were  referred  to 
the  Consideration  of  Your  Lordships,  in  the  Ordinary  and  Com- 
mon Course,  as  all  other  Appeals  from  the  Plantations  usually 
are,  for  a  Judicial  Determination. 

That,  after  a  great  length  of  Time,  and  a  most  heavy  Expence, 
the  s*?  Appeals  came  on,  and  were  most  solemnly  heard  by  Yor 
Lordships,  at  four  several  long  Hearings,  upon  the  6*.''  13'.''  and  26'.'' 
of  Novemfand  the  11 '.''of  Decmf  now  last.  Upon  which  Hearings, 
yof  Lordships  were  pleased  to  Affirm  the  Comm'.'  Determination, 
made  upon  the  Spot,  and  upon  the  many  long  Hearings  which 
had  been  there  without  any  Variation. 

That,  altho'  the  same  deprived  Your  Petitioners  of  more  than 
Two  Thirds  of  what  they  had  before  conceived  to  belong  to  them, 
Yet  they,  (as  they  always  did  and  will)  hold  themselves,  bound 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        319 

to  Submit  to  your  Lordships  wise  and  equal  Determination  and 
never  entertained  a  Thought  of  Doing  otherwise. 

That,  your  Lordships  Report  to  his  Majesty  in  Council,  was 
accordingly  drawn  up,  and  Your  Petitioners  were  exceedingly  con- 
cerned, that  several  General  Councils,  shou'd  successively  pass, 
and  Your  Lordships  Report  not  be  layd  in  the  Constant  Method 
of  Proceeding,  before  his  Majesty  in  Council,  for  his  Royal  Plea- 
sure thereon  ;  whereby  this  Dispute,  of  Fourscore  Years  Continu- 
ance, might  at  Length,  be  brought  to  a  Period. 

But,  upon  enquiring,  with  great  Anxiety,  into  the  Cause  thereof, 
yo"  Petition™  late  on  Wednesday  Night,  now  last,  received  In- 
formation, that  the  Mass?  Bay  had  presented  some  Pet"  to  Stop 
Yof  Lordships  Report,  made  in  Obedience  to  his  Majestys  sev- 
eral Orders  of  Refference. 

That,  your  Petitioners  are  advised  there  is  no  such  Instance, 
at  any  time  before,  upon  all  your  Lordships  Books,  And  are 
Wholly  at  a  Loss  to  know,  upon  what  Pretence,  such  an  Appli- 
cation can  be  possably  founded,  your  Petition"  not  having  so 
much  as  seen,  or  been  acquainted  with,  the  Purport  of  such 
Petition. 

That,  as  your  Petitioners  most  humbly  conceive,  this  not  only 
affects  the  Course  of  Justice,  in  Matters  Judicially  depending 
before  yo''  Lordships  on  Appeals,  but  wou'd  be,  a  precident,  of 
the  most  Dangerous  Consequence,  and  wou'd  render  Yo""  Lord- 
ships Determinations  Vain,  and  of  no  Import,  after  so  much 
time,  taken  up  therein ;  Besides  the  grievous  Expence  and  Incon- 
veniences, that  the  keeping  this  matter  open  woud  Occasion  to 
yo""  Petiti"  who  are  overpowered,  by  the  Might  and  profusion  of 
Expence,  that  the  great  Province  of  the  Mass?  Bay,  always  launch 
out  into  (and  necessarily  put  their  Neighbors  to)  on  every  Con- 
test for  Extent  of  Power  or  Territory. 

And,  for  as  much,  as  it  is  the  known  and  constant  Method, 
of  the  Mass?  Bay,  in  every  Instance  before  Yo""  Lordships,  never 
to  submit  to  any  Determina"  w*soever,  but  continually  to  oppose 
and  Struggle  against  the  same,  in  Order  to  weary  out  their  Adverse 
Partys ;  Of  the  Truth  whereof,  your  L'^Ships  may  please  to  be 
informed,  of  many  Instances. 

Your  Petitioners  most  humbly  pray  Yo""  Lordships,  that  Yo'' 
Lordships  Report,  in  these  Appeals,  may  not  be  kept  back,  but 


320  Correspondence  of  the 

may  be  layd  before  his  Ma'7  in  Co^3,  for  his  Royal  Pleasure 
thereon,  in  the  same  manner  as,  and  according  to,  the  Constant 
Course  of  Proceeding,  in  all  other  Judicial  Appeals.^ 
And  Yo"  Petitioners  shall  ever  pray  &cf 


GOVERNOR   SHIRLEY   TO    GOVERNOR   GREENE. 

Boston  March  4.  174^. 
Sir, 

Not  having  been  favour'd  by  you  with  an  Answer 
to  my  Letter  upon  the  Subject  of  the  present  Expe- 
dition against  the  French  Settlements  on  Cape  Bre- 
ton and  your  uniting  the  Forces  of  the  Colony  under 
your  Government  with  those  of  this  Province  in  his 
Majesty's  Service  against  the  Common  Enemy,^  and 
being  inform'd  that  your  Assembly  meets  again  this 
day,  I  take  the  liberty  to  renew  my  Instances  to  you 
in  his  Majesty's  behalf  upon  this  extraordinary  Oc- 
casion. 

I  must  acknowledge.  Sir,  when  I  consider'd  what 
frequent  and  very  large  Emissions  of  Paper  Bills  of 
Credit  your  Assembly  has  of  late  made  for  the  Con- 
veniency  of  the  Inhabitants  of  your  Colony,  and  how 
exceeding  light  (if  any)  the  Taxes  of  your  Government 
are,  I  could  not  entertain  the  least  Doubt  but  that 
it  would  have  made  07ie  Emission  for  his  Majesty's 

1  The  petition  of  Massachusetts  for  a  rehearing  was,  with  this  protest,  referred  to 
the  Plantation  Committee,  and  their  final  report,  in  April,  1746,  rejected  the  Massa- 
chusetts petition,  and  reaffirmed  the  decision  of  the  Commission  of  1741. 

2  Evidently  Greene's  letter  of  February  S  had  not  reached  the  enthusiastic  and  zeal- 
ous governor  of  Massachusetts.  The  Assembly  voted  to  raise  150  men  (see  Col.  Rcc. 
of  K.  /.,  v.  102),  augmented  the  emission  of  £2,500  in  bills  of  credit  to  £6,250,  and 
passed  an  act  offering  40  shillings  bounty  (in  money  of  the  old  tenor)  to  each  soldier 
who  might  enlist  in  the  Massachusetts  forces.     Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  102-106. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       321 

Service,  and  for  the  Support  of  the  common  Cause 
of  the  Colonies  of  New  England,  in  which  the  Col- 
ony of  Rhode  Island  has  so  great  a  Share  of  Interest, 
and  more  depending  upon  the  Success  of  the  Expe- 
dition than  it  ever  had  upon  the  Event  of  any 
Expedition  since  it  has  been  a  Colony;  And  that 
the  Gentlemen  of  the  Assembly  would  have  been  at 
least  induc'd  to  have  done  so  by  the  Example  of  this 
Government,  and  that  of  New  Hampshire,  (the  lat- 
ter of  which  I  have  an  Assurance  will  have  rais'd  350 
Men  and  provided  Transports  and  other  Necessaries 
for'  em  with  a  small  Vessell  of  Force  by  the  Middle  of 
this  Week)  tho',  both  provinces  and  more  especially 
this  were  before  burthen'd  with  very  considerable 
Taxes  for  the  Support  of  his  Majesty's  Government 
in  'em.  I  also  persuaded,  myself.  Sir,  that  tho'  neither 
a  Regard  for  his  Majesty's  Service  nor  the  General 
Interests  of  New  England  should  have  mov'd  your 
Assembly,  yet  that  at  this  Critical  Coiijuncture  of 
Affairs  they  would  most  readily  have  embrac'd  so 
favourable  an  opportunity  of  promoting  his  Majesty's 
Service  in  the  present  Emergency,  at  least  that  the 
Gentlemen  of  the  Assembly  would  not  have  distin- 
guish'd  themselves  by  being  unconcern'd  for  it.  I 
cannot  indeed  say  what  part  the  Colony  of  Connecti- 
cut will  act  upon  this  Occasion,  but  I  shall  hope  that 
it  will  not  prove  to  be  the  Characteristick  Difference 
between  the  Spirit  of  the  Old  Charter  Governments 
and  those  commonly  distinguish'd  by  the  Name  of  the 
King's  Governments,  that  the  former  have  less  Duty 
to  his  Majesty  and  Zeal  for  the  Publick  Service  in  pro- 
portion to  the  privileges  and  Indulgence  they  enjoy 
under  his  Government. 


322  Correspondence  of  the 

The  Levies  in  this  Province  go  on  very  well,  and 
I  have  a  prospect  of  being  able  to  send  away  a  Body 
of  2000  Troops  from  Boston  by  the  latter  End  of 
this  Week  or  the  beginning  of  next  at  farthest,  and 
that  I  shall  send  looo  more  after  'em  in  a  few  days; 
And  that  I  shall  be  able  to  assemble  before  the  Har- 
bour of  Louisbourg  by  the  Middle  of  this  Month  a 
Naval  Force  beyond  what  I  expected,  and  which,  I 
hope,  may  probably  be  superior  to  what  the  Enemy 
can  send  there  before  the  Arrival  of  some  of  his 
Majesty's  Ships  of  War  from  the  West  Indies  and 
Great  Britain.  Of  these  Vessells  four  Ships,  two 
Snows  ^  and  two  Brigatines  besides  the  Country 
Sloop  are  all  in  the  Pay  of  this  Province. 

If  your  Assembly  could  be  yet  influenced  to  con- 
tribute any  thing  towards  the  Expedition,  their  rais- 
ing of  a  Regiment  of  500  Men  to  follow  the  Forces 
of  this  Province  and  New  Hampshire  as  soon  as  pos- 
sible may  still  be  of  considerable  Service,  which  I 
shall  yet  hope  they  will  do.     I  am  Sir, 

Your  Honour's  Most  Obedient  Humble  Servant 

W  Shirley. 

P.  S.  I  think  M'  Hutchinson  in  his  Memorial 
desir'd  your  Government  would  assist  us  with  a  few 
Battering  Pieces  of  Ordnance ;  But  as  Gov!"  Clinton 
has  sent  me  ten  Cannon  for  that  Purpose  with  Stores 
and  Implements,  I  shall  not  have  Occasion  for  any 
more  besides  our  own. 

Gov'  Green. 

1  "  A  vessel  equipped  with  two  masts,  resembling  the  mainmast  and  foremast  of  a 
ship,  and  a  third  small  mast  just  abaft  and  close  to  the  mainmast,  carrying  a  trysail. 
Vessels  are  no  longer  rigged  in  this  way."     Cettt.  Diet. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        323 

DANIEL    COGGESHALL^   TO   JOSIAH   WILLARD. 

Yours  relating  [to]  Sundry  persons  accused  of 
committing  a  Riot  against  the  Authority  of  Your 
Province  with  the  enclosed  Proclamations  came  to 
the  Hands  of  the  Hon!  william  Green  Esq^  who  has 
laid  the  same  before  the  General  Assembly  of  the 
Colony.^  Who  have  considered  the  same,  and  how 
far  this  Government  have  acquitted  themselves  of 
any  Imputation  of  Skreening  the  Persons  charged  as 
Rioters  You  will  easily  se  by  the  inclosed  Vote  of 
the  General  Assembly.^  As  this  Disturbance  was  a 
Matter  Foreign  from  this  Colony  the  Authoritys 
thereof  will  by  no  means  make  them  selves  Abetors 
or  Countenancers  of  the  Authors  thereof.  And  it 
is  apprehended  that  the  Conduct  of  this  Colony 
has  ever  been  such  that  there  has  been  no  room  to 
Imagine  that  these  Persons  will  find  any  Shelter 
therein.  Signed  by  Order  of  the  aforesaid  General 
Assembly 

per  D  CoGGESHALL  Pro  SecrY 

East  Greenwich 

March  y'^  174^. 

To  JOSIAH    WiLLARD  Esq' 

Secretary  in  Boston 


1  One  of  the  governor's  assistants.  2  See  letter  of  October  18,  1744. 

3  Col.  Rec.  ofR.  I.,  V.  107. 


324  Correspondence  of  the 


GOVERNOR  GREENE  TO  GOVERNOR  LAW, 

Warwick  March  11'."  174I. 

our  Gen"  Assembly  being  Seting  the  week  past 
enacted  that  our  Countrey  Sloop  well  equip'd  with 
Ninety  able  men  to  be  enlisted  as  Volunteirs  Should 
forth  with  proceed  upon  the  Expedition  against  Cape 
Briton  and  There  to  be  Under  the  Command ;  and 
Directions  of  the  Commodore,  and  the  Gen"  Assem- 
bly at  s'?  Sessions,  Enacted  that  there  should  be  forth- 
with Enlisted  as  Vollunteirs  in  this  Colony  at  the 
Governments  Expense,  three  Companies  of  Mar- 
riens,  or  Land  fources,  fifty  men  to  each  Company ; 
and  we  having  Been  Lately  Informed  that  Your 
Government  have  Come  into  Measures  to  Raise  a 
Considerable  Number  of  Fources  for  s'*  Expedition  ; 
and  That;  his  Hon!  M'  Wollcot,^  will  Likely  be 
appointed  the  Second  Commander  of  the  Land 
fources ;  which  will  be  Very  agreeable  to  our  Gov- 
ernmf  Knowing  him  to  be  a  Gentleman  of  Hon!  I 
am  therefore  Directed  by  our  assembly  to  Request 
of  Your  Hon' that,  our  Land  fources  may  be  annaxed 
to  Yours  ^  when  they  Come  to  the  place  appointed 
and  there  be  under  the  Command  of  Your  Superior 
officers,  for  that  we  have  not  appointed  any  officer 
above  a  Cap'"  and  our  Government  much  Raither 
Chuses  to  Join  Your  fources  than  with  Boston;^  I 


1  Hon.  Roger  Wolcott,  of  Windsor,  commander  of  the  Connecticut  troops  in  the 
Cape  Iketon  expedition,  deputy  governor  of  the  colony  from  1741  to  1750,  and  gov- 
ernor from  1750  to  1754.     He  died  in  1767. 

2  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  I.,  V.  104,  106,  107. 

8  See  Shirley's  letter  of  March  4,  1745,  ^°''  ^"  explanation  of  this  preference. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       325 

do  therefore  In  behalf  of  this  Colony  earnestly  Re- 
quest that  Your  Honf  will  be  pleas^  to  faviour  us 
with  Joining  Your  fources  as  aforesaid,  and  be  pleased 
to  Let  me  Know  per  the  first  oportunity  that  I  may 
Give  Instructions  accordingly  I  am  Sr 
your  Honours  most  Humble  Servant 

W.  Greene 

P.  S  pleas  to  Direct  (if  You  write)  to  be  left  at 
John  Arnolds  in  East  Greenwich 

to  the  Hon*^!"  Jona^  Law  Esq"" 


JOSIAH  WILLARD  TO  GOVERNOR  GREENE. 

Boston  March  27.  1745 
Sir^ 

I  am  directed  by  the  Governour  and  Council  of 
this  Province  to  acquaint  your  Honour  that  they 
have  had  Consideration  of  the  Vote  of  your  General 
Assembly  pass'd  the  sixth  Instant  in  Answer  to  the 
Demands  of  this  Government^  by  my  Letters  writ- 
ten by  their  Order  and  dated  the  I8*^  of  October  last 
and  2f  Instant  for  the  delivering  up  the  Rioters  fled 
into  your  Colony;  And  cannot  but  look  upon  this 
Answer  as  in  Effect  a  Denial  to  deliver  up  these 
Men  to  Justice;  for  it  is  well  known  that  two  of 
them  viz*  John  Brown  junT  and  Benjamin  Burden  are 
removed  with  their  Families  to  Rhode  Island,  and 
may  be  taken  up  by  your  Officers  every  Day,  but  if 
any  of  our  Officers  come  from  the  County  of  Bristol 
their  Business  is  presently  suspected,  and  so  these 

1  See  letter  of  March  7,  1745. 


o 


26  Correspondence  of  the 


Men  hide  themselves  for  a  short  time,  knowing  their 
Danger  will  be  soon  over :  But  it  was  justly  expected 
by  this  Government  that  upon  the  repeated  Instances 
made  to  your  Government  for  the  Delivery  of  these 
enormous  Offenders  against  the  Authority  of  his 
Majesty's  Government  you  would  have  immediately 
issued  out  Warrants  for  apprehending  them  by  your 
own  Officers,  and  upon  their  being  taken  that  they 
should  have  conveyed  them  safe  into  the  County  of 
Bristol,  and  there  deliver'd  them  up  to  Authority; 
And  this  Governm?  would  have  made  no  Difficulty 
to  have  acted  with  your  Governm!  in  the  same  man- 
ner, if  such  Offenders  had  fled  from  Justice  out  of 
your  Colony  into  this ;  But  seeing  this  Justice  has 
been  denied,  the  Governour  and  Council  think  it  no 
ways  honourable  to  proceed  in  the  way  you  prescribe, 
in  which  they  are  sure  to  be  baffled.  And  they  are 
more  concerned  at  this  manner  of  proceeding  of  the 
Government  of  Rhode  Island,  because  they  find  by 
the  Records  of  this  Province  that  it  is  not  the  first 
Instance  of  notorious  Offenders  being  sheltered  in 
that  Colony.     I  am  Sir, 

Your  Honour's  very  humble  Servant 

J  WiLLARD  Secretary. 
William  Green  Esq' 


GOVERNOR    LAW    TO    GOVERNOR    GREENE. 

MiLFORD  April  i"  1745 

Yours  of  the  1 1^*'  of  March  last  I  rec^     have  sent 
a  Copy  of  it  to   the   Maj'   Gen'  ^   Gov!"  Shirley  has 

1  Major-General  Wolcott. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        327 

given  him  a  Commission  over  all  the  forces  of  the 
Massachusetts,  Connecticutt,  Hampshire  and  Rhoad 
Island  sent  to  Cape  Breton  and  I  have  given  a  ComV 
to  Lieut  Gen'  Pepperil  and  to  him  over  all  the  forces 
that  go  to  Cape  Britton  and  places  adjacent.  If  you 
think  fitt  you  may  do  the  like.  And  to  your  Cap- 
tains, your  Commissions  may  describe  them  to  be- 
long to  the  Regiment  of  ColP  Andrew  Burr  of  Con- 
necticutt 

The  Maj""  Gen!  I  understand  is  gone  down  to  New 
London  and  has  ordered  our  Troops  to  be  there  on 
Thursday  next. 

doubt  not  but  you  will  concert  Measures  with  him 
when  he  shall  come  and  joyn  your  forces  in  Order 
to  proceed  on  the  expedition. 

Its  pretty  credibly  reported  (tho'  Gov''  Shirley  did 
not  mention  it  to  me)  That  the  Paquett  Boat  brings 
News  from  Comadore  Warren  That  he  with  three 
shipps  will  meet  our  forces  att  Cape  Briton 

He  sends  for  forces  to  guard  the  Western  part  of 
his  Province  but  our  assembly  have  given  Instruc- 
tions to  send  men  on  the  approach  of  an  enemy  and 
not  garrisoning,  he  complains  of  his  Province  being 
exhausted  of  men  and  money,  but  its  their  own  vol- 
untary Act  and  we  are  drawn  in  by  them,  and  I 
would  hope  for  success  if  the  Commadore  comes 
from  your  very  humble  servant 

JoN^.**  Law 

To  the  Hon^'^  W  Green  Esq-- 


328  Correspondence  of  the 

ROGER  WOLCOTT^  TO  GOVERNOR  GREENE. 

New  London  Aprill  i'.»  1745 

Your  two  Letters  to  Gov'  Law  of  the  ii*!"  and 
22?  of  March  past  meeting  with  some  Gentlemen 
of  our  Councill  Who  knew  in  What  manner  the  In- 
tended Expedition  was  lost  with  [illegible]  by  their 
ordering  Come  to  my  hand,  that  of  the  22?  about 
five  days  since  and  the  other  this  day 

I  Accknowledge  the  Honr  your  Assembly  has  done 
my  self  and  the  field  officers  here  in  ordering  the 
Companys  you  raised  to  go  with  our  troops  under 
our  Chief  Comanding  officers  I  have  nothing  to  Re- 
port on  this  years  Proceeding  but  that  you  deprived 
them  of  Better  officers  that  would  be  sent  from  your 
selves.  I  assure  you  if  they  Came  they  shall  fare  as 
our  own  Men  and  I  shall  with  utmost  ChearfuUness 
do  them  any  service  I  can. 

I  am  Glad  you  Encline  that  Cap*  Fones^  and  any 
other  vessells  you  send  should  Go  with  us,  this  will 
certainly  be  for  our  Mutual  defence.  I  am  just  now 
Come  to  Town  and  have  this  oportunity  to  Inform 
you  that  I  have  ordered  our  forces  to  be  all  here 
by  Saturday  Next  at  farthest  and  I  doubt  Not  we 
shall  be  under  saill  some  time  Next  Week,  it  may 
be  towards  the  Latter  End  of  it  I  have  discoursed 
with  Cap'  [illegible]  about  our  Joining  you,  he  says 
that  if  we  put  in  at  Newport  it  will  Hinder  us  24 
hours  and  it  may  be  two  or  three  days,  I  therefore 

1  See  note  on  p.  324. 

2  Fones  was  captain  of  the  colony  sloop. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        329 

propose  that  if  you  are  ready  first  you  Come  to  New 
London  and  saill  together  from  home  or  if  you  shall 
think  it  better  lett  me  know  when  we  may  Expect  to 
find  you  off  Block  Island    I  am  your  Hon"^^ 
Most  obliged  Very  Humble  Serv^ 

Roger  Wolcott 

To  the  Hon^^^^  Will^  Green  Esq*" 

P  S  If  my  proposals  are  not  Agreeable  to  you  lett 
me  Know  your  further  sentiments  What  is  best  to 
be  done  in  order  to  join  without  Loss  of  time 


CAPTAIN    DANIEL    FONES ^   TO    GOVERNOR    GREENE. 

Sloop  Tartar  Canso  harbour' 
Ap!  26'?  1745 

Hon"  S^ 

This  line  Informs  you  That  we  got  Safe  into  this 
harbour  Yesterday  we  met  with  a  Ship  on  our  pas- 
sage which  proov'd  To  be  a  french  man  of  War^  of 
Near  40  Guns  and  after  we  had  given  him  two  of 
our  Bow  Chases  Saluted  us  with  four  Broad  Sides  to 
the  Number  of  at  Least  60  Cannon  the  Ship  went 
So  well  that  we  were  oblig'd  To  weaken  our  Vessel 

1  Fones  was  an  enterprising  sea  captain,  who  represented  North  Kingstown  in  the 
General  Assembly.  He  was  sent  to  Cape  Breton  with  the  Connecticut  transports,  in 
command  of  the  Rhode  Island  colony  sloop,  Tartar,  and  there  distinguished  himself 
by  intercepting  at  Famme  Goose  Bay  a  force  of  1200  French  and  Indians,  who  were 
advancing  from  Annapolis  to  the  relief  of  Louisbourg.  This  was  two  days  before  the 
surrender  of  the  fortress  (see  his  letter  of  June  26).  In  the  list  of  Rhode  Island  pri- 
vateers of  the  later  French  war,  given  in  Sheffield's  Privateersmen  of  Newport,  p.  52, 
Fones's  name  appears  twice,  in  1757  and  in  1760. 

2  The  rendezvous  for  the  detachments  from  the  different  colonies,  on  the  eastern 
coast  of  Nova  Scotia. 

8  This  was  the  Renommie,  of  36  guns,  bringing  despatches  from  France. 


330  Correspondence  of  the 

To  get  Clear  of  him  w'^.^  we  Effected  after  8  hours 
Chase ;  we  are  this  day  going  in  Chase  of  him  in 
Company  with  Cap?  Rows : 

Comodore  Warren  with  3  other  Ships  of  War  are 
gone  to  Cape  Britain :  the  fleet  is  To  Sail  from  hence 
w'^  the  first  wind :  all  hands  are  well,  this  in  haste 
Concludes  from  Honf  Sf  y"  To  Command. 

Da^>  Fones. 

To  the  Honourl^  Will¥  Greene  Esqr 

Govern^  and  Commander  in  Chief  of  the  Colony 
of  Rhode  Island 


RICHARD   PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR   GREENE. 

London  3?  month  the  15.  1745 
Gov''.  Green 

I  wrote  thee  of  the  25.  of  i^.'  mo.  last  via  Boston 
per  Cap*  Adams  and  then  sent  thee  a  Copy  of  the 
Massach'.^  Agents  Petition  to  the  L'^.'  Committee  of 
Council  against  their  Report  on  the  determination 
of  the  Boundary  Cause  which  has  hitherto  put  a 
Stop  to  its  being  laid  before  the  King  for  the  Royal 
Confirm'?  on  the  ii'!"  ult  there  was  a  general  Coun- 
cil held  where  I  attended  (notwithstanding  the  s^ 
Pet")  in  order  to  get  the  Committees  Report  con- 
firmed, but  found  that  the  s'^  Agent  had  dropt  his 
first  Petition  and  a  fresh  one  thrown  in  ag^.*  the  Re- 
port addressed  to  the  King  in  Council,  w""^  the  Clerk 
of  the  Council  shewed  me,  intimating  that  the  L? 
President  was  for  having  it  read  and  referrd  to  the 
Consider?  of  the  Lords  Committee,  but  he  prevailed 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       331 

with  him  to  omit  it  then,  and  that  it  was  not  yet 
referr'd,  but  what  will  be  done  at  the  next  or  future 
Sitting  of  the  Council  I  cannot  take  upon  me  to 
determine :  this  however  will  occasion  some  delay 
and  Expence  do  all  we  can,  however  I  intend  in  con- 
cert with  my  Solicitor  do  our  best  Endeavours  for 
the  Service  of  our  Cause  and  nothing  shall  be  want- 
ing in  my  power  to  get  this  Matter  finally  deter- 
mined —  alltho'  this  late  obstruction  has  given  me 
no  little  trouble  —  and  it  is  somewhat  discouraging 
to  be  so  much  in  advance  as  I  am,  having  received 
no  Remittance  of  the  Colonys  now  for  upwards  of 
two  years  notwithstanding  all  my  Remonstrances, 
tho'  many  opportunitys  have  offerd  from  Boston  to 
London  and  Bristol. 

the  Parliam'  was  prorogud  the  2^  Inst  and  the 
King  gone  over  to  his  Germain  dominions,  nothing 
was  done  this  Sessions  about  Paper  Currency,  but 
it  is  certainly  expected  they  will  proceed  on  it  when 
the  Parliam*  meets  again. 

As  for  other  Publick  News  the  War  is  car^  on  still 
with  vigour  against  the  French  and  Spaniards.  The 
Q.  of  Hungarys  Army  has  this  Spring  been  very 
victorious  in  Bavaria  driving  all  before  them  in  so 
much  as  that  the  young  Elector  of  Bavaria  (son  of 
the  late  Emperor)  is  forced  intirely  to  quit  his  Ally 
the  French  and  brot  to  Terms  of  accomodation  and 
peace,  w"*"  was  once  hoped  would  have  been  as  a 
foundation  for  a  general  pacification  at  least  in  Ger- 
many this  Summer.  The  Dutch  have  hitherto  held 
out  and  kept  off  from  taking  part  in  the  War  any 


332  Correspondence  of  the 

otherwise  than  by  Auxiliaries  afforded  us  by  Sea  and 
Land. 

The  French  with  a  large  Army  are  now  beseiging 
Turnay^  a  Strong  Fortified  Town  of  the  Q.  of  Hun- 
garys  in  Flanders  with  whom  our  Allied  Army  have 
lately  had  an  Engagem'  tho  far  inferiour  in  Num- 
ber  (commanded  by  the  Duke  of  Cumberl^  and  Gen' 
Conigsegg)  to  the  French  and  endeav*^  to  beat  them 
out  of  their  Trenches  in  order  to  raise  the  Seidge 
but  were  repulsed  with  the  loss  of  7  or  8000.  Men 
of  the  English  Dutch  and  Hannoverians  killed :  the 
Army  notwithstanding  made  a  good  Retreat  and  are 
now  reinforcing. 

I  should  have  told  thee  that  the  Parliam*  for  some 
considerable  time  before  they  broke  up  had  made 
a  very  Strict  Enquiry  into  the  miscarriage  of  the 
Engagem*  or  Sea  ffight  of  our  Fleet  in  the  Meditera- 
nean  with  the  combined  fleets  of  France  and  Spain 
by  examining  the  Admirals  Matthews  and  Lestock 
and  Sev?  Captains  and  Sea  Officers  and  therein  dis- 
cov^  a  great  deal  of  cowardize  and  misconduct  in 
some  of  the  Capts  and  Lieu'^  and  addressed  the  King 
that  they  together  with  the  Admirals  sh'^  be  tryed  by 
a  [word  missing]  Court  Marshall  w'^''  is  expected  will  be 
done  accordingly 

I  am  with  respects 

Thy  assured  Friend 

Rich?  Partridge 

the  Lords  of  the  Regency  now  in  the  Kings  ab- 

1  Tournay,  invested  by  Marshal  Saxe. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       333 

sence  are  the  Arch  Bishop  of  Cantebury  Lf  Chancelor 
and  18  more  of  the  Privy  Council 

William  Green  Esqy 

Governour  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and 
Providence  Plantations 
New  England. 


GOVERNOR  SHIRLEY  TO  GOVERNOR  WANTON.^ 

Boston  May  18.  1745 
Sir, 

I  am  oblig'd  once  more  to  make  Application  to 
you  for  the  Assistance  of  your  Governm'  in  the  im- 
mediate raising  of  some  Troops  for  supporting  the 
Expedition  against  Cape  Breton ;  which  the  General 
of  our  Land  Forces,  and  the  Commodore  of  the  Fleet 
have  represented  to  me  very  necessary  for  the  Reduc- 
tion of  the  Place :  How  far  Providence  has  hitherto 
favour'd  us  in  this  Attempt,  and  what  Encouragem! 
we  have  to  proceed  in  it  you  will  find  by  the  inclos'd 
Copy  of  a  Letter  I  have  just  now  received  from  the 
General  of  our  Forces:^  And  as  I  am  inform'd  it 
is  pretended,  to  colour  the  Backwardness  in  some  of 
the  Colonies  and  Provinces  to  join  with  us  in  this 
Enterprize,  That  the  Undertaking  of  it  without  his 
Majesty's  express  Order  would  be  so  far  from  recom- 
mending us  to  his  favour  that  it  would  rather  incur 
his  displeasure,  I  am  now  able  to  remove  that  Objec- 
tion and  to  acquaint  your  Honour,  That  upon  my 

1  Printed  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V,  134. 

2  See  the  following  document. 


334  Correspondence  of  the 

Letter  to  his  Grace  the  Duke  of  Newcastle  inform- 
ing him  of  our  Resolution  to  undertake  this  Affair, 
and  how  far  we  had  proceeded  therein  (which  Let- 
ters were  laid  before  his  Majesty)  his  Majesty  and 
his  Ministers  were  pleased  so  far  to  manifest  their 
Approbation  of  our  Undertaking  that  without  the 
least  Loss  of  time  two  Ships  of  War  were  ordered  to 
proceed  directly  to  Louisbourg  to  support  us  herein ; 
as  they  had  before  upon  my  more  general  Inti- 
mation of  a  Design  of  this  Nature,  ordered  Com- 
modore Warren  to  come  from  the  West  Indies  and 
attend  this  Service  ;  who  is  now  before  Louisbourg 
with  five  of  his  Majesty's  Ships  of  War,^  and  will  in 
a  few  days  be  joined  with  two  other  of  his  Majesty's 
Ships  one  of  sixty  and  the  other  of  forty  Guns  which 
are  already  saild  from  hence  upon  that  Service :  And 
I  am  fully  assured  that  his  Majesty  has  the  Success 
of  this  Expedition  much  at  heart.  And  now,  Sir,  as 
this  Province  has,  (in  Conjunction  with  the  Province 
of  New  Hampshire  and  the  Colony  of  Connecticut) 
at  an  immense  Charge  undertaken  this  important 
Expedition,  and  so  far  proceeded  therein  under  the 
favourable  Aspects  of  divine  Providence,  and  the 
gracious  Approbation  and  Assistance  of  his  Majesty 
I  must  desire  that  your  Governm!  would  maturely 
consider  how  great  a  Benefit  the  Requisition  of  this 
Place  will  be  to  the  future  Safety  and  Tranquility 
of  all  these  Northern  Colonies ;  And  how  justly  his 
Majesty  may  resent  a  Refusal  of  any  of  'em  to  join 
in  the  common  Cause,  and  how  much  such  Gov- 

1  Warren  sailed  from  the  West  Indies  with  three  ships,  the  Superbe,  Mermaid,  and 
Launceston,  and  reached  Louisbourg  late  in  April. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       335 

ernm'  may  hereafter  regret  their  unseasonable  Fru- 
gality, if  by  denying  at  this  Crisis  to  contribute  their 
just  Quota  for  the  carrying  on  and  Support  of  this 
Expedition,  which  is  now  brought  so  near  to  an 
happy  Event,  they  should  prove  the  Means  of  its 
fatal  Miscarriage.  This  Representation  of  the  State 
of  our  Case  my  Duty  to  his  Majesty  obliges  me  to 
make.  And  I  must  earnestly  press  your  Governm! 
to  give  it  a  full  Consideration,  and  send  me  a  speedy 
Answer  as  to  their  Resolutions  thereupon. 

I  am  Sir, 

Your  Honours  obedient  humble  Serv* 

W  Shirley 

The  hon^'^  Gideon  Wanton  Esqf 


GENERAL  WILLIAM  PEPPERELL  ^  TO  GOVERNOR  SHIRLEY/ 

May  it  please  Your  Excellency. 

The  Letter  herewith  inclosed  contains  an  Account 
of  the  State  of  the  Army  during  our  Stay  at  Canso: 
since  which  a  more  agreable  Scene  has  opened,  I 
have  now  the  pleasure  to  inform  Your  Excellency 


1  Sir  William  Pepperell  was  born  in  Kittery,  Maine.  His  early  career  was  that  of 
a  prosperous  merchant.  When  thirty  he  was  made  colonel  of  the  Maine  militia.  He 
represented  Kittery  in  the  Massachusetts  legislature,  and  in  1727  was  a  member  of  the 
council.  When  the  expedition  to  Cape  Breton  was  planned,  the  command  was  offered 
to  Pepperell,  who  accepted  it  after  much  hesitation.  For  his  exploits  before  Louis- 
bourg  he  was  made  a  baronet,  and  was  appointed  colonel  of  one  of  the  two  regiments 
which  it  was  proposed  to  raise  in  America  on  the  English  establishment.  He  re- 
mained at  Louisbourg  during  the  winter,  and  returned  to  Boston  in  1 746.  Not  long 
afterward,  he  retired  from  business,  with  the  reputation  of  being  the  richest  man  in 
the  colonies.  In  1749  he  went  for  a  year's  stay  to  England.  He  died  at  Kittery  in 
1759.    See  preface  to  the  volume  of  "  Pepperell  Papers  "  in  the  Mass.  Hist.  Soc.  Coll. 

2  Enclosed  in  letter  of  May  18,  1745. 


336  Correspondence  of  the 

that  on  the  2^^  Ult"l°  We  set  Sail  from  thence  with 
hopes  of  reaching  Chappeauroge  Bay^  that  Night, 
but  the  Wind  failing  rendred  it  impossible  and 
obliged  us  to  lay  aside  the  thoughts  of  a  Surprize : 
The  next  Morning  about  Eight  o'Clock,  We  were  off 
the  Mouth  of  the  Bay  upon  which  the  Enemy  made 
an  Alarm  by  firing  off  a  Number  of  their  Cannon. 
We  came  to  Anchor  with  all  Expedition,  and  tho' 
it  was  a  difficult  Time,  determined  immediately  to 
land  the  Troops  under  Cover  of  Fletcher's  Bosch's 
and  Saunders's  Gunns.  a  party  of  about  150,  of  the 
Enemy  sally'd  out  to  annoy  our  Landing  who  were 
well  received  by  the  boats  first  on  Shore  who  killed 
Six  or  Seven,  and  took  as  many  Prisoners  (among 
whom  were  some  persons  of  distinction)  without  Loss 
of  any  on  our  side,  and  one  or  two  slightly  wounded, 
The  Enemy  soon  retreating  to  the  Garrison.  We 
landed  about  2000  men  the  first  day,  during  which 
time  the  Enemy  burnt  a  Number  of  Houses  between 
the  Town  and  Grand  Battery,  and  sank  some  Ves- 
sels in  the  Harbour  the  next  day  landed  the  re- 
maind'r  of  the  Troops  and  proceeded  to  put  the 
Army  into  a  proper  disposition  for  such  Operations 
as  should  be  found  most  expedient. 

Next  morning  found  that  the  Enemy  had  deserted 
the  Grand  Battery  in  a  very  precipitate  manner,  hav- 
ing spik'd  up  the  Guns,  but  left  the  Trunnions  on, 
and  many  of  the  Carriages  whole  and  a  Quantity  of 
Shott,  upon  which  I  immediately  ordered  a  Regi- 
ment there,  the  Union  Flag  to  be  hoisted,  and  work- 

1  Also  called  Gabarus  Bay,  a  spacious  outer  harbor,  immediately  adjoining  Louis- 
bourg. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       337 

men  to  drill  the  Cannon,  who  soon  got  several  of 
them  cleared,  and  turn'd  them  on  the  Town  with 
good  Success,  almost  every  Shot  lodging  in  the 
Town,  and  a  considerable  Number  among  which 
was  the  3^  4'.^  and  6'.^  fell  into  the  roof  of  the  Cita- 
del :  We  have  now  got  about  Twenty  of  them  ready 
for  Service,  four  only  of  which  can'  bring  to  bear 
upon  the  Town,  most  of  the  Others  Command  the 
Mouth  of  the  Harbour,  hope  soon  to  get  the  whole 
Number  drill'd  which  will  be  Twenty  five  42  Pound- 
ers and  two  18  Pounders;  three  of  the  42  Pounders 
being  split,  cannot  conceive  of  any  reason  why  the 
Enemy  should  desert  so  fine  a  Fortification  but  ex- 
tream  want  of  men.  The  Enemy  return  our  Fire 
from  thence  with  some  Cannon  and  more  Bombs, 
some  of  which  have  shatter'd  part  of  the  Wall  and 
building  but  hurt  none  of  our  Men.  The  landing 
and  transporting  of  the  Artillery  and  Stores,  prove 
very  difficult,  have  got  the  small  Mortars  and  Cohorns 
to  a  hill  about  four  hundred  Yards  distance  from  the 
Town  and  the  large  one  to  another  hill  near  that, 
from  which  have  thrown  some  Bombs  into  the  Town, 
but  the  bed  of  the  large  One,  on  which  Our  chief 
Dependance  is,  has  twice  given  way,  and  put  us  to 
Difficulty.  The  Enemy  have  twice  sally 'd  out  towards 
that  Battery,  but  were  repulsed  by  the  Detachment 
Posted  for  the  Security  thereof,  without  Loss  on  our 
Side,  and  only  one  man  wounded,  but  by  some  Can- 
non they  have  turned  upon  it  from  the  Town,  we 
have  had  one  man  killed  and  2  or  3  wounded.  We 
have  also  thrown  up  a  fascine  Battery  at  the  West 
part  of  the  Town  where  expect  this  Night  to  have 


338  Correspondence  of  the 

mounted  the  Eight  22  pounders.  On  the  seventh 
instant,  by  advice  of  the  Council,  at  which  had  the 
Pleasure  of  Commodore  Warren's^  Presence,  A  Sum- 
mons was  sent  in  to  the  Commanding  Officer  at 
Louisburg,  Copy  of  which  with  the  Answer  have 
inclosed  :  upon  which  determined  to  proceed  in  the 
most  vigorous  manner,  and  to  Attack  the  Island  Bat- 
tery in  boats  the  first  favourable  Opportunit3^  to  the 
Assistance  of  which  Commodore  Warren  offered  to 
send  a  Number  of  his  Sailors  and  marines,  but  as 
yet  have  not  had  Opportunity  to  prosecute  it  I  had 
the  Pleasure  of  meeting  with  Commodore  Warren 
on  my  Passage  to  Chappeauroge  Bay,  who  assured 
me  of  his  readiness  to  contribute  to  his  utmost  in 
any  Shape  for  the  good  of  the  Expedition,  and  since 
our  Landing  he  has  been  so  good,  as  to  come  on 
Shore  with  the  kindest  Offers  of  the  same,  which  are 
very  acceptable  and  Engaging.  Yesterday  I  received 
your  Excellency's  Letter  of  the  10'?*  and  22"?  Ul"?°  by 
Express  from  Canso,  Cap!  Bradford  being  detain'd 
there  by  the  Loss  of  his  Boom ;  delivered  to  Com- 
modore Warren  his  inclosed  Pacquets  —  what  relates 
to  that  Gent :  in  your  Excellency's  Letters  is  per- 
fectly agreable  to  me ;  I  shall  on  all  Occasions  be 
fond  of  the  Assistance  and  Advice  of  a  Gen!  whose 
generous  Attachment  to  the  welfare  of  the  Colonies 
in  general,  and  this  Expedition  in  special,  added  to 

1  Sir  Peter  Warren,  who  was  sent  with  a  20-g^n  frigate  to  guard  tlie  American 
coast  off  the  Carolinas  in  1735,  ^""^  remained  there  nearly  six  years.  Early  in  1745 
he  was  ordered  north  with  his  squadron  to  cooperate  with  the  colonial  troops  in  the 
attack  upon  Louisbourg.  When  Warren  finally  forced  his  way  into  the  harbor,  the 
fortress  surrendered  (June  27).  He  was  promoted  to  be  rear-admiral  in  August,  1745, 
and  took  part  in  the  battle  of  Cape  Finisterre  in  1747.  Later,  he  was  elected  member 
for  Westminster.     He  died  in  1752. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       339 

his  well  known  personal  Merit  in  his  Active  and  suc- 
cessful Service  of  our  Nation  intitles  him  to  the  high- 
est Esteem  from  Every  well  wisher  to  New  England. 

I  had,  before  the  receipt  of  yours,  wrote  to  Cpt 
Tyng,  that  he  should,  with  the  Vessels  under  his 
Direction  wait  upon  the  Commodore  for  his  Orders, 
and  strictly  to  observe  the  same,  have  acquainted 
him  of  your  Orders  to  me,  relating  to  sending  Smeth- 
urst^  to  New  England.  I  make  no  doubt  of  his 
Majesty  and  the  Ministry's  intire  Approbation  of  your 
Excellency's  Conduct  in  Setting  on  foot  this  Expe- 
dition, and  that  they  will  Support  it,  but  hope  we 
may  Accomplish  our  Design  without  waiting  for 
any  Additional  force  from  thence.  I  imagine  that  it 
would  be  fruitless  to  send  to  Annapolis  for  any  part 
of  their  Strength  at  a  Time  when  they  may  Appre- 
hend themselves  in  danger  of  a  Seige. 

Col?  Moulton  has  joined  us  with  the  Detachment 
sent  to  S*  Peters,  having  destroyed  that  Settlement, 
taken  some  Plunder  and  prisoners,  burnt  four 
Schooners,  and  brought  off  one.  He  lost  one  Man 
and  had  one  wounded,  the  greatest  part  of  the  In- 
habitants made  their  Escape.  Have  also  Advice  from 
Capt  Donahew  of  his  return  with  Becket  from  the 
Bay  Vert,  in  going  up  the  Gutt  he  met  with  a  party 
of  Indians,  upon  which  Captains  Jaynes  and  Stani- 
ford  with  their  Companies  going  on  Shore,  tho  Con- 
trary to  Orders,  the  former  had  the  Misfortune  to  be 
killed,  and  the  ether  wounded,  the  Indians  were  beat 
off  without  other  Loss  on  our  Part,  In  the  Bay  of 
Vert  he  took  two  small  Vessels,  that  were  Empty,  the 

1  Captain  Smethurst  of  the  Massachusetts  militia. 


340  Correspondence  of  the 

others  were  hall'd  up,  where  he  could  not  come  at 
them ;  he  burnt  a  Considerable  Number  of  Houses 
and  birch  Canooes :  but  was  not  so  fortunate  as  to 
meet  with  any  further  Success.  I  find  Chappeau- 
roge  Bay  a  fine  Harbour  for  the  Transports,  which 
have  Ordered  to  remain  there  under  the  Care  of 
Captain  Saunders,  I  should  have  dispatch'd  a  Ves- 
sell  to  Y-  Excellency  immediately  upon  our  Success 
at  the  Grand  Battery,  but  the  Wind  has  proved  Con- 
trary, and  I  was  in  hopes  of  being  able  to  give  your 
Excellency  an  Account  of  some  Addition  to  Our 
Acquisitions  By  Advice  of  the  Council  this  Day 
have  determined  to  incamp  in  a  regular  Manner  near 
the  Northeast  Harbour,  and  throw  up  a  Battery  there, 
and  mount  the  New  York  Train  of  Artillery  and 
some  of  the  Guns  from  the  Grand  Battery,  and  to 
leave  one  Regiment  at  the  Grand  Battery,  to  Sup- 
port and  repair  it,  which  may  be  soon  done  in  such 
a  Manner  that  200,  Men  will  defend  it  against  2,000, 
and  with  that  and  the  other  Battery  proposed,  I  ima- 
gine that  We  command  the  Harbour  against  any 
Thing  that  will  Attempt  to  get  in,  and  by  posting 
two  Regiments  to  protect  the  Battery  on  the  west 
Side  and  intercept  any  Recruits  getting  in  by  Land, 
We  shall  intirely  cut  ofif  any  Communication  with 
the  Town,  as  it  has  been  judged  not  adviseable  to 
Atempt  the  storming  the  Town  at  present,  and  as  a 
considerable  Reinforcement  may  be  daily  expected  by 
the  Enemy  from  Canada,  as  well  as  force  from  France 
which  it  is  possible  may  find  means  to  get  in,  I  am 
advised  by  the  Council  to  move  to  your  Excellency 
the   sending   us   the    Reinforcement   of  a  thousand 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       341 

men,  also  another  large  Mortar,  and  a  Number  of 
Shells,  and  a  spare  bed  for  the  large  Mortar,  shall 
send  you  up  fourteen  of  our  Transports  under  Con- 
voy of  Cpt  Smethurst  for  that  purpose,  and  by  him 
and  them  shall  send  up  the  Prisoners,  a  List  of  which 
have  inclosed,  am  much  Obliged  to  your  Excellency 
for  your  Care  in  regard  to  Us,  I  have  just  rec^  yours 
of  the  23"?  w''^  Cap*  Donahew  brought  down  from 
Canso,  by  whom  I  am  informed  that  five  of  the  Ves- 
sels with  Provisions  for  the  Army  are  arrived  there, 
having  narrowly  Escaped  the  French  Ship  that  has 
been  upon  the  Coast  sometime,  who  had  obliged  one 
of  them  to  strike,  which  afterwards  Escaped  by  meet- 
ing with  Rouse,^  who  to  prevent  the  Transports  fall- 
ing into  the  Enemy's  hands  gave  the  Ship  opportu- 
nity to  chase  him,  by  which  means  those  of  them  got 
safe  to  Canso.  I  am  fearful  that  one  or  both  of  the 
other  are  taken,  The  French  Ship  having  made  use 
of  Our  Signals  for  a  Decoy,  have  not  yet  heard  fur- 
ther of  Rouse,  hope  Cpt  Cutler  will  be  able  to  give  you 
a  good  Account  of  him  by  this  Opportunity,  have 
desired  Comf  Warren  to  Send  up  a  Convoy  to  Canso 
to  bring  down  the  Provision  Vessels  there :  shall  write 
yr  Excellency  again  by  Cp^  Smethurst,  whom  I  expect 
will  be  here  very  soon  in  the  mean  time  must  pray 
that  multiplicity  of  business  may  excuse  what  is  want- 
ing in  this.  I  am  with  all  duty  and  Respect. 
Your  Excellency's  most  obed'  hum^J^  Servant 

W¥  Pepperell 

Copy  Exam*^  per  J.  Willard  Secretary. 

1  Compare  this  with  Fones's  account  of  April  26,  1745. 


342  Correspondence  of  the 

BEFORE    LOUISBURG  May  IZ'?  1 745 

I  have  had  great  Satisfaction  in  the  Conduct  and 
Vigilance  of  the  General  Officers  and  Col°  Brad- 
street,  and  hope  all  the  others  will  merit  the  Thanks 
of  their  Country,  there  was  a  Scout  contrary  to 
Orders  Stragled  and  Eighteen  of  them  were  killed, 
there  is  near  two  hundred  of  our  Soldiers  taken  sick 
since  the  inclosed  List  was  taken 

His  Excellency  Gov!  Shirley 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR    WANTON. 

London  4'."  mo.  the  13.  1745 
To  Friend  Gideoit  Wanton  ^ 

I  expect  by  the  information  I  have  had  that  this 
will  meet  thee  in  quality  of  Governour  of  Rhode 
Island  and  Provid*  Plantations  and  therefore  I  lookt 
upon  it  my  duty  early  to  take  this  opportunity  of 
assuring  thee  of  my  readiness  to  continue  to  serve 
the  Colony  w'*"  faithfulness  as  I  have  hitherto  done 
according  to  the  best  of  my  Capacity  flattering  my 
self  it  has  met  with  their  approbation  and  intend 
hereafter  to  advise  thee  of  the  most  material  Occur- 
rencys  relating  to  the  Colony,  there  has  not  the 
least  attack  on  your  Charter  or  the  Priviledges  of  it 
been  made  by  any  person  whatsoever  that  I  have  heard 
of  (save  the  Paper  Currency  Bill  in  Parliam'  w''*'  is 
over  till  next  Sessions)  and  it  may  be  depended  on, 
that  I  shall  be  on  the  Watch  and  endeavour  to  pre- 

1  A  nephew  of  William  and  John  Wanton,  and  the  third  governor  of  that  name. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       343 

vent  any  thing  of  that  kind  w*^^  may  be  attempted 
to  their  prejudice,  and  exert  myself  in  the  preserva- 
tion of  their  Rights  and  Libertys  which  hitherto 
they  have  enjoyed  before  and  ever  since  the  Colony 
have  thought  fitt  to  continue  me  in  their  Agency. 
I  have  not  long  since  writt  concerning  the  Col- 
onys  Affairs  to  the  late  Gov!",  Deputy  Govf  and  As- 
sembly w''^  I  expect  will  be  communicated  to  thee. 
And  as  the  Lord  President  is  gone  to  His  Country 
Seat  nothing  further  is  like  to  be  done  very  soon 
therein. 

I  have  had  no  letter  from  any  of  yo^  Colony  as  I 
remember  for  a  considerable  time,  tho'  there  has 
been  an  opportunity  this  Spring  from  Boston  to  Bris- 
tol and  also  very  lately  via  Whitehaven  by  whom 
others  have  received  Letters.  I  am  with  due  respect 
to  thyself  and  the  Gentlemen  of  the  Council  and 
House  of  Representatives 

Thy  and  their  assured  Friend 

R?  Partridge 

5  month  the  2*  1745 

Governour  Wanton 

Agreeable  to  my  information  in  the  foregoing  Let- 
ter I  am  now  advised  of  thy  being  elected  Govern- 
our of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  IsH  &c^  in  which  Sta- 
tion I  wish  thee  success,  and  that  thou  mayst  be 
endued  with  wisdom  to  Govern  to  the  Contentment 
of  the  People  and  to  thy  own  ease  and  happiness, 
with  regard  to  the  Affairs  of  the  Colony  which  have 
been  depending  here  —  they  are  yet  at  a  stand,  the 
Lords  Committees  Report  to  the  King  in  Council 


344  Correspondence  of  the 

on  the  Boundary  Cause  is  not  yet  confirmed  tho'  we 
have  strove  hard  to  get  it  done,  it  being  retarded  by 
a  long  Petition  w'^''  the  Massach*'  Agent  has  exhibited 
against  it  praying  for  the  Reasons  therein  set  forth 
that  a  Review  of  the  Cause  may  be  granted,  that  is 
for  a  Rehearing  in  N.  E.  against  w'^''  we  have  pre- 
pared a  Counter  Petition  and  am  in  great  hopes  we 
shall  give  it  a  Turn,  however  I  intend  to  exert  my- 
self to  the  utmost  w*^  my  Sol'  and  Council  and  leave 
no  stone  unturnd  to  get  their  restless  proceeding 
sett  a  side 

The  Matter  of  the  Naval  Officer  lyes  still  dor- 
mant as  it  did/  I  am  waiting  in  Expectation  for  a 
Plan  of  yo'  Fortification  agreeable  to  what  is  ex- 
pected by  the  Ministry  here  which  I  wrote  for  some 
time  since,  that  a  grant  may  be  obtained  of  those 
Stores  proposed  in  the  Office  of  Ordinance  Report 
of  w''''  I  sent  over  a  Copy. 

Its  expected  that  the  Affair  of  the  Paper  Currency 
Bill  will  be  resumed  in  the  next  Sessions  of  Parliam' 
when  I  shall  with  the  proper  assistance  of  my  Law- 
yers do  my  best  to  ward  off  any  thing  that  shall 
tend  therein  to  the  prejudice  of  the  Colony,  being 
as  I  think  pretty  well  furnished  w"'  Argum'f  for  the 
Opposition.  I  do  not  doubt  but  the  Colony  will 
furnish  me  in  the  mean  time  with  the  Supplys  w'^** 
will  be  absolutely  necessary  for  enabling  me  chear- 
fully  to  pursue  their  respective  depending  Interests. 
I  think  it  is  now  upwards  of  2  years  since  I  have 
had  any  Remittance  from  them,  but  am   in   expec- 

1  The  reference  is  to  Lockman's  appointment. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       345 

tation  of  something  considerable  with  the  Mast 
Fleet.^ 

And  now  I  shall  give  thee  some  hints  of  the 
National  Transactions  w''''  probably  will  be  expected 
(especially  as  it  is  now  a  time  wherein  great  part  of 
Europe  are  involved  in  the  Calamity  of  Wars  and 
bloodshed  w''^  as  far  as  I  see  are  likely  to  continue 
till  divine  Providence  shall  see  Cause  to  put  an  End 
to  them  by  graciously  interposing  in  favour  to  Man- 
kind and  Stop  the  Effusion  of  Blood  amongst  the 
Contending  Powers. 

The  French  have  an  Army  joined  w*''  the  Span*^^ 
in  Italy  to  favour  Don  Phillips  pretentions  to  Parma 
and  Placentia  belonging  to  the  Q.  of  Hungary,  they 
the  French  have  also  Two  other  powerfull  Ones  on 
the  Rhine  in  Germany,  and  in  Flanders,  where  they 
have  lately  taken  Tournay  a  Strong  fortified  Town 
of  the  Said  Queens,  being  a  Dutch  Barrier,  in  doing 
of  w'^''  its  judg'd  they  have  lost  20000  Men,  but  they 
had  been  attacked  before  that  by  the  Army  of  the 
Queens  Allies  under  the  Duke  of  Cumberlf  con- 
sist^  of  English,  Dutch,  and  Hannoverians  wherein 
the  Allies  came  off  with  the  worst.^  the  Queen  of 
Hungary  has  a  large  Army  on  the  Rhine  in  oppo- 
sition to  the  French  under  Prince  Conti.  And  an 
other  in  Bohemia  under  the  Command  of  Prince 
Charles  employd  ag'.'  the  King  of  Prussia  between 
whom  there  has  also  been  a  Battle  wherein  the  Prus- 
sians had  the  better  of  it,  and  gained  a  great  advant^ 

1  The  mast  fleet  sailed  annually  from  Falmouth,  with  masts  for  the  royal  navy.  In 
times  of  war  ships  were  frequently  ordered  to  Falmouth  that  they  might  cross  the 
ocean  under  the  protection  of  the  mast  fleet. 

3  The  battle  of  Fontenoy,  May  ii,  1745. 


346  Correspondence  of  the 

over  the  Austrians;*  So  that  our  Affairs  as  to  the 
Land  War  go  on  but  discouragingly.  Our  King  is 
still  at  Hannover,  probably  he  will  go  to  the  Army 
in  Germany. 


GOVERNOR   SHIRLEY   TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

Sir, 

I  have  just  now  received  Letters  from  General  Pep- 
peril  and  Commodore  Warren ;  by  which  I  learn  That 
tho'  we  have  suffered  some  Loss  of  Men  (between  i 
and  200)  in  an  Attack  on  the  Island  Battery,  which 
miscarried;  yet  that  we  have  obtained  considerable 
Advantages  against  the  Enemy  in  taking  several  of 
their  Provision  Vessels  and  worsting  them  in  some 
Skirmishes,  our  Parties  have  had  with  them ;  and  by 
the  Intelligence  they  have  received  from  Prisoners 
(which  is  confirmed  by  other  Circumstances)  the 
Enemy  are  short  of  Provisions  and  Ammunition  : 
But  as  the  Number  of  our  Men  is  not  equal  to  the 
Greatness  of  the  Enterprize,  and  therefore  the  Duty 
is  heavy  on  the  Officers  and  Soldiers,  they  press  im- 
portunately for  at  least  Three  thousand  Troops  as 
absolutely  necessary  to  reinforce  them,  and  a  con- 
siderable Number  of  Seamen  for  Manning  the  Ship 
Vigilant:^  But  altho'  the  Land  and  Sea  Forces  need 
these  Recruits,  yet  I  find  the  Officers  full  of  Hopes, 
of  a  good  Issue  of  this  Affair  by  the  reduction  of 

1  In  the  battle  of  Hohenfriedberg,  June  3. 

2  Letters  of  Shirley  to  Wanton,  upon  the  necessity  of  manning  the  Vigilant,  writ- 
ten June  I  and  6,  1745,  ^""^  i"  ^^^  ^°^-  ^^^-  of  R.  /.,  V.  135,  136.  See  the  action  of  the 
Rhode  Island  Assembly,  Ibid.,  V.  117.  The  Vigilant  was  a  64-gun  ship,  carrying  560 
men,  and  loaded  with  stores  from  France.    She  was  captured  on  May  19. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        347 

Louisburg.  And  as  the  Success  thereof  is  of  the 
utmost  consequence  for  the  best  Interests  of  these 
Provinces  ;  and  which  (as  I  find  by  Letters  which 
Commodore  Warren  has  received  from  His  Majestys 
Ministers)  his  Majesty  and  his  Ministers  have  much 
at  Heart :  I  must  therefore  with  great  Earnestness 
press  your  Honour  to  have  as  many  Soldiers  and 
Seamen  raised  in  your  Colony,  as  can  possibly  be 
spared,  and  that  without  the  least  Delay :  And  I  do 
assure  you  that  I  find  the  Assembly  here  well  spir- 
ited to  support  the  Expedition  to  their  utmost,  and 
that  they  will  do  all  that  they  can  to  furnish  the 
necessary  Recruits ;  but  it  [is]  not  possible,  nor  can 
it  be,  expected  that  we  should  answer  these  Demands 
of  Recruits  without  very  great  Assistance  from  our 
Neighbours/  If  you  have  good  Experienced  Gun- 
ners with  you,  send  them  hither  without  Delay  for 
this  Service. 

I  desire  to  hear  speedily  from  you  for  the  Encour- 
agement of  our  Friends  at  Cape  Breton. 

I  am 

Your  Honour's  very  humble  Servant 

W  Shirley 

Boston  June  16.  1745 

I  must  earnestly  recommend  this  to  the  Consid- 
eration of  your  Governm'  as  a  matter  in  w*'?'  the  fate 
of  New  England  is  wound  up,  and  upon  which  the 
present  and  future  Interest  of  your  Colony  in  every 
respect  is  most  deeply  concern 'd  in  particular. 

W  S. 

The  Hon''!*  Gideon  Wanton  Esq' 

1  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  I.,  V.  119. 


348  Correspondence  of  the 

GOVERNOR   SHIRLEY   TO   GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

Boston  June  20. 1745 
Sir, 

About  8  o'clock  this  Evening  I  reciev'd  Your  Let- 
ter by  Capt"  Prince,  and  a  Copy  of  your  Act  of  As- 
sembly for  raising  Seamen  to  man  the  Vigilant ; 
And  according  to  your  request  inclose  you  a  Certi- 
ficate/ which  I  hope  will  have  its  proper  Effect.'^  If 
it  is  defective,  be  pleas'd  to  let  me  know  it,  and 
I  will  make  it  fuller,  if  I  can  ;  tho'  I  have  taken 
care,  I  think,  to  leave  no  room  for  any  doubt  or 
Scruple. 

I  wish  you  success  in  the  Execution  of  your  Act^ 
and  that  it  may  promote  his  Maj*^!'  service  at  this 
very  Critical  Conjuncture ;  and  am  Sir 

Your  Honour's  most  Obedient,  Humble  Serv! 

W  Shirley. 
Govr  Wanton. 

Certificate  by  Governor  Shirley. 

By  his  Excellency  the  Governour. 

Whereas  the  General  Assembly  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island 
did  on  the  second  Day  of  June  Instant  pass  an  Act  for  Raising 
Seamen  for  the  manning  of  his  Majesty's  Ship  Vigilant  belonging 
to  the  Squadron  under  the  Command  of  the  Hon^'^  Commodore 
Warren  now  before  Louisbourg,  promising  thereby  a  Bounty  of 
seventeen  pounds  Old  Tenour  to  be  paid  by  the  said  Colony  to 
every  such  able  bodied  Seaman,  as  shall  enlist  in  the  said  Ser- 
vice, not  exceeding  the  Number  of  two  hundred  Men  :  Now  for 
the  further  Encouragement  of  Seamen  within  the  said  Colony  vol- 
untarily to  Enlist  in  his  Majesty's  aforesaid  Service,  I  do  hereby 
Certify  that  all  Seamen,  who  are  or  shall  be  so  rais'd  in  the  afore- 

1  See  enclosure.  2  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  117, 118. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        349 

said  Colony  for  the  said  Service,  are  and  will  be  entitled  to  his 
Majesty's  pay  from  the  time  of  their  respective  Enlistments,  and 
to  be  discharg'd  from  the  same  at  the  End  of  the  present  Expe- 
dition against  the  French  Settlements  on  Cape  Breton,  or  the 
sooner  Arrival  of  his  Majesty's  said  Ship  Vigilant  at  Boston,  in 
the  same  manner,  as  Seamen  rais'd  and  to  be  rais'd  within  the 
province  of  the  Massachusetts  Bay  for  the  aforesaid  Service  are 
and  will  be,  to  an  equal  Share  of  Prizes  with  them ;  and  to  the 
same  privileges  offer'd  by  the  said  Commodore  Warren  to  any, 
who  have  been  Deserters  from  any  of  his  Majesty's  Ships,  as 
they  are  and  will  be. 

Given  under  my  Hand  and  Seal  at  Arms  at  Boston  the  20*? 

Day  of  June  1745. 

W  Shirley. 


CAPTAIN    FONES   TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

Sloop  Tartar  in  the  Gut  of  Canso^ 
the  26'.''  June  1 745 

Hon''  S^: 

I  suppose  you  have  e're  now  Reef  my  letter  of 
the  7*^  Ins'  wherein  I  informed  yor  honour  of  my 
being  Stopt  by  a  Council  of  war,  Sea  and  Land 
officers  in  Concert,  the  reason  of  my  being  Sent 
to  the  Bay  of  Vert  was  to  Intercept  a  Number  of 
French  and  Indians  that  were  To  joyn  the  forces 
at  Cape  Breton  on  the  I5'^  Ins*  my  Self  with  Two 
other  Sloops  Under  my  Command  met  with  them ; 
as  near  as  we  Could  guess  Twelve  hund^  in  Number 
in  Famme  Goose  Bay ;  Their  fleet  Consisted  of  Two 
Sloops,  Two  Schooners  one  Shalloway  and  about 
fifty  Indian  Canoes  but  we  with  our  Consorts  gave 

1  In  1746  this  name  was  applied  to  the  strait  separating  a  group  of  islands  opposite 
Canseau  from  the  southeastern  point  of  the  peninsula  of  Nova  Scotia.  See  map  of  the 
Sieur  Bellin  in  Winsor,  Narr.  and  Crii.  Hist.,  V. 


350  Correspondence  of  the 

them  So  warm  a  Reception  killing  some  and  wound- 
ing others ;  as  Caus'd  them  To  retire  with  precipi- 
tancy up  Creeks  out  of  our  reach ;  and  have  been 
Cruizing  for  them  Ever  Since  So  that  we  hope  we 
have  Stopt  them  from  going  To  Cape  Breton/ 

I  have  this  day  dispatch'd  one  of  the  Sloops  To 
Cape  Breton  and  hope  in  a  few  days  To  hear  that 
the  place  is  Taken.  I  am  mighty  Uneasey  that  I  have 
had  no  News  from  yy  honour ;  wou'd  begg  of  you  To 
write  me  per  the  first  Oportunity.  —  Through  Gods 
Goodness  I  have  lost  none  of  my  people. 

I  am  honour'd  Sf  yl"  hon? 

Most  humble  Serv* 

Daniel  Fones 


GOVERNOR   WANTON    TO    RICHARD    PARTRIDGE. 

Frie7id  Partridge 

You  have  herewith  a  Replication  to  the  Vile  Re- 
monstrance of  Christopher  Kilby  Esq,  Agent  for  the 
Province  of  the  Mass.  Bay,^  which  Affair  you  are 
desired  to  get  finished  as  Quick  as  possibly  you  can, 
and  get  the  Decree  passd  upon  the  Report  of  the 
Right  HonH'*  the  Lords  of  the  Committee  according 
to  their  Determination 

The  two  Remittances  of  ^150  and  ^550  was  made 
in  due  Time  according  to  the  Advices  given  You, 
and  shipped  in  Gold  Dust  and  Bills  of  Exchange  in 
the  Eltham  Man  of  War  commanded  by  Cap^  Philip 

1  For  a  notice  of  this  engagement  and  its  significance,  see  note  on  p.  329. 

2  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  I.,  V.  121,  for  instructions  of  the  Assembly  to  the  Governor. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       351 

Durel  sometime  last  Fall/  being  reckoned  the  safest 
Convayance,  which  Ship  was  stopp'd  by  Commodore 
Warren  in  the  Service  of  the  Expedition  against  Cape 
Breton,  and  not  gone  Home  as  yet,  nor  don't  know 
when  she  will  be  released. 

The  Plan  of  the  Fort  could  not  be  got  Ready  now 
to  send  to  the  Board  of  Ordnance,^  Because  our  Col- 
ony of  late  have  been  exceedingly  busied  in  procuring 
to  be  raised  3  Companies  of  Foot  Soldiers  and  about 
80  Seamen  to  help  Man  the  Ship  Vigilant  a  French 
Ship  of  War  of  64  Guns  taken  by  Commodore  War- 
ren off  Louisbourg  on  Cape  Breton,  which  are  all  em- 
barked for  that  Place. 

You  are  desired  by  the  General  Assembly  for  the 
Future  always  when  You  write  about  the  publick 
Affairs  of  the  Government  to  superscribe  Your  Let- 
ters to  the  Governour  and  Company,  and  make  no 
Personal  Superscription,  to  avoid  Letters  being  taken 
up  by  former  Governours,  For  upon  a  new  Election 
its  Impossible  for  You  to  know  Who  is  chosen,  and 
being  Personally  directed  may  be  taken  up  by  a  late 
Governour,  of  which  We  have  had  an  Instance,  and 
by  this  Method  of  Direction,  the  like  will  be  pre- 
vented    I  am  with  Respects 

Thy  assured  Friend 

Gideon  Wanton 

Newport  on  Rhode  Island  4  July  1745. 

To  M'  Richard  Partridge. 

1  See  letters  of  December  12  and  29,  1744. 

2  The  Assembly  made  arrangements  for  draughting  a  plan  in  the  May  session.    Col. 
Rec.ofR.  I.,  V.  117. 


352  Correspondence  of  the 

GOVERNOR    SHIRLEY    TO    THE    PENOBSCOT    INDIANS.^ 

Boston  July  \z^  1745. 
Good  Friends, 

As  We  have  Agreed  to  give  one  another  Advice 
of  all  that  happens,  I  now  Acquaint  you  that  Heaven 
has  favour'd  our  Righteous  Cause  against  the  French 
who  have  unjustly  made  War  upon  us,  And  Louis- 
bourg  with  the  Island  of  Cape  Breton  was  the  I7*^  of 
June  last  delivered  into  our  hands,  where  we  have 
now  4000,  Soldiers  Masters  of  the  place,  and  ten 
large  men  of  War  besides  many  smaller  Ships  of 
War  there,  and  We  have  also  taken  a  large  Man  of 
War  from  the  French  carrying  near  Seventy  Gunns,^ 
and  between  Five  and  Six  hundred  Men  besides  a 
great  Number  of  Merchant  Vessells,  and  We  have 
now  brought  to  Boston  above  Seven  hundred  French 
Prisoners,  and  above  Two  Thousand  French  Prison- 
ers at  Louisbourg  and  aboard  our  Ships  of  War  will 
Be  sent  home  to  France  immediately.  This  Intel- 
ligence We  send  you  that  you  may  not  be  deluded 
by  the  French  or  S'  Johns  and  Nova  Scotia  Indians 
that  may  Sollicit  you  to  break  your  Friendship  with 
us  to  your  own  Ruin,  We  have  been  your  faithful 
Friends  and  your  Traffick  with  us  has  been  much 
more  for  your  Advantage  than  your  Trade  with  the 
French  and  you  may  still  live  Easy  with  us  and 
free  from  the  distress  and  danger  of  War  if  you 
please  but  if  not  and  you  will  let  the  French  and 

1  A  tribe  of  the  eastern  Abenaki  Indians.  Most  of  them  had  been  converted  by 
French  missionaries  and  persuaded  to  remove  to  Canada  ;  those  remaining  were  to 
a  greater  or  less  extent  under  French  influence.  Parkman,  A  Half  Century  of  Con- 
flict, I.  34,  92. 

2  The  Vigilant,  of  64  guns. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        353 

the  Indians  in  their  Interest  Deceive  and  Seduce 
You  and  you  will  perfidiously  break  your  Solemn 
League  with  us,  We  doubt  not  but  the  Great  God 
Who  is  the  Avenger  of  all  such  Wickedness  And  has 
So  remarkably  Punished  our  Treacherous  Enemys 
the  French  will  stand  by  us  and  give  us  Success  for 
the  Punishing  your  perfidiousness,  but  if  you  are 
willing  to  Enjoy  the  benefits  of  peace  with  us  we 
shall  Expect  that  you  will  send  two  or  three  of  your 
chief  Captains  To  Confirm  the  Friendship  between 
us,  and  if  any  of  your  People  stand  in  fear  of  the 
French  and  therefore  want  protection  for  themselves 
and  their  Familys  and  will  come  up  to  Boston  we 
will  take  Care  of  them.  I  Expect  that  you  send  me 
your  Answer  without  delay. 

I  Remain  your  good  Friend 

W  Shirley 

To  the  Sachem  and  others  of  the  Penobscot  and 
Norridgwalk  Indians.^ 

Copy  Exam^  per  J  Willard  Secretary. 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

London  5  month  the  18  :  1745 
Governour  Wanton 

I  wrote  thee  on  the  2^  Inst  the  needfull  relating 
to  the  Affairs  of  the  Colony  to  which  I  refer,  all  w*"^ 
remain  here  still  in  the  Same  Scituation. 

I  have  lately  reef  a  letf  via  HoUf  from  Jos.  Whip- 

1  Norridgewocks,  also  a  tribe  of  the  Abenakis.    See  previous  note. 


354  Correspondence  of  the 

pie  Esqr  dat  15,  May  advising  of  a  Remittance  made 
to  me  of  abo';^700  St?  per  the  Eltham  Man  of  War 
Cap!  Durell  but  that  the  same  was  gone  to  favour  the 
Expedition  at  Cape  Briton,  So  that  it  will  be  some 
time  yet  before  it  comes  to  hand,  in  the  mean  time 
we  must  wait  with  Patience,  acknowledging  the  Col- 
onys  favourable  Regards  Towards  me. 

Here  is  an  Express  lately  arrived  to  the  L"^*  of  the 
Admiralty  from  Boston  of  the  i^.^  June  giving  Some 
acco^  of  the  progress  of  the  said  Expedition,  about 
w*^  the  Ministry  and  People  here  are  mighty  Intent 
and  fond  off,  looking  upon  it  of  very  great  Conse- 
quence to  this  Kingdom  as  well  as  to  our  Plantations, 
and  therefore  are  very  much  pleased  with  the  New 
England  People  for  Undertaking  it :  but  I  have  had  it 
several  times  thrown  at  me  as  if  Rhode  Island  wou'd 
contribute  very  little  if  any  thing  at  all  towards  it, 
And  very  lately  as  if  they  were  so  far  from  affording 
their  Assistance  that  when  the  Sailors  belono^ing;  to 
the  Kings  Men  of  War  or  other  Ships  of  War  had 
deserted  and  got  into  Rhode  Island  Government 
they  were  there  harboured  and  protected  that  the 
Captains  they  belonged  to  cou'd  not  get  them  again, 
and  that  Commodore  Warren  had  writt  over  Com- 
plaints of  this  Nature;^  if  these  things  shou'd  prove 
true  it  may  make  up  hill  work  for  me,  both  at  Court 
and  Parliament,  but  I  hope  otherwise  however  I 
looked  upon  it  my  Duty  to  advise  thee  of  it. 

As  to  Publick  News  the  King  remains  still  at 
Hannover;  Affairs  as  to  the  Land  War  go  on  still 
badly  on  our  Side,  unless  it  be  on  the  Rhine  in  Ger- 

1  See  Sliirley's  letter  of  June  6  to  Wanton,  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  I.,  V.  136. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       355 

many  where  they  say  the  Queen  of  Hungarys  forces 
have  very  lately  obtained  some  considerable  Advan- 
tages over  the  French  Army  under  Prince  Conti. 
I  am  Thy  Assured  Friend 

Rich?  Partridge 

To  Gideon  Wanton  Esq! 
Governour  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plan- 
tations 

New  Engl^ 


CAPTAIN   FONES   TO   GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

Sloop  Tartar  in  Lewisbourg  harb!" 
July  23  :  174s 

I  wrote  you  per  Cap*  Tyng^  wherein  I  inform'd 
you  of  the  Rec^  of  yf  letter ;  as  you  have  orderd  me 
To  wait  the  Commodores  pleasure  I  wonder  that  you 
did  not  Send  me  provisions.^  I  am  out  of  Stores 
of  every  kind  and  my  people  almost  Naked ;  Since 
my  last  Two  of  my  hands  are  dead  and  Several 
others  Sick,  you  Cant  but  know  that  provisions  here 
are  extravagantly  dear  and  Scarce. 

pleas  to  favour  me  with  a  line  per  first  Oportunity. 
I  am  Honour'd  Si" 

Yr  Humble  Serv* 

Da^.^  Fones 

To  the  Honourable  Gideon  Wanton  Esq' 
Governour  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island 

1  Captain  Edward  Tyng,  of  the  Massachusetts,  of  24  guns,  and  commander  of  the 
fleet  of  that  province. 

2  The  Assembly  in  August  voted  that  Captain  Fones  should  be  directed  to  purchase 
necessaries  at  the  best  rate  possible.    Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  124. 


356  Correspondence  of  the 

CAPTAIN    FONES   TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

Lewisbourg  harb^  [July]  26.  1745 
Hon'  S'. 

Since  my  Last  I  am  Obliged  To  Land  my  Sick 
(which  are  now  on  Board)  which  I'm  afraid  will  hurt 
them  very  much,  although  4  Sworn  Masters  of  Ships, 
were  Yesterday  Sent  on  Board  to  View  our  Sloop 
and  made  Return  that  the  Jibb  and  fore  Stay  3  of 
the  Shrouds  the  Main  Sheet  and  all  the  Running 
Rigging  is  Ineffectual  and  good  for  Nothing.  Yet 
Nevertheless  I  am  hurried  away  To  the  Island  of  S- 
Johns  w'f'  70  Men  of  wars  men  what  the  Consequence 
may  be  God  knows.  I  am  to  Convoy  a  Number  of 
Vessels  with  Soldiers  To  demand  the  Inhabitants 
of  S!  Johns  To  Surrender  the  Island  To  the  King  of 
great  Britain.^     I  am  Honour'd  S^ 

yr  most  humble  Serv. 

Da^^  Fones 

To  the  honourable  Gideon  Wanton  Esqf 

Governour  and  Commands  in  Chief  of  the  Col- 
ony of  Rhode  Island 


1  Arnold  {History  of  Rhode  Island,  II.  150)  makes  the  statement  that  "four  hun- 
dred men  were  sent  from  Louisbourg  under  convoy  of  the  Tartar,  against  St.  John's, 
on  Prince  Edward  Island,  which  immediately  surrendered."  Haliburton  {History  of 
Nova  Scotia,  I.  123)  says  that  the  Island  St.  John's,  since  called  Prince  Edward's 
Island,  was  taken  by  the  English  in  July,  which  is  doubtless  correct.  Bourinot  gives 
the  island  the  name  of  St.  Jean  in  his  Cape  Breton.     See  map  opposite  page  61. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       357 

RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

London  5  month  the  23.  1745 
Govern''  Wanton 

I  wrote  thee  of  the  iS'.*"  Inst  of  the  Colonys  Affairs 
&c^  to  w"**  I  refer,  Since  that  there  has  been  a  Cause 
heard  before  the  L"^.'  Comm'^  of  Council  (in  some 
measure  Similar  to  the  Circumstances  of  our  Bound- 
ary Cause)  at  w'=^  my  SoP  and  I  attend'^  which  was 
decided  in  such  a  manner  that  I  think  it  will  serve 
as  a  good  Precedent  for  us  and  therefore  I  am  not 
sorry  the  Petition  of  the  Massach'^  Agent  was  not 
pushed  on  to  a  Hearing  before  the  s'^  Cause  was 
over,  for  that  I  am  in  great  hopes  of  our  reaping  at 
least  some  benefit  by  it.  And  now  I  have  writt  to 
the  Clerk  of  the  Council  agreeable  to  the  Copy  of 
my  Letter  above,^  w''''  I  send  thee  to  demonstrate 
that  we  are  not  negligent  in  prosecuting  the  Affair 
in  such  a  manner  as  is  consistant  with  prudence  to 
obtain  if  possible  the  desired  Effect. 

I  have  also  as  thou  willt  see  wrote  to  the  Said 
Clerk  of  the  Council  in  vindication  as  well  as  I  could 
of  the  Colony  from  the  aspertions  cast  upon  them  in 
the  matter  of  the  Expedition  ag"^'  Cape  Briton,  for  it 
was  he  that  first  informed  me  of  the  Report,  and  the 
Answer  therein  given  he  seemd  to  take  well  and 
reckond  it  necessary. 

I  wish  thou  coudst  get  a  few  lines  from  Com!  War- 
ren and  send  me  in  Justification  of  the  Colony  to 
take  off  the  edge  of  those  aspertions  w*'''  I  beleive 

1  See  the  following  document.    Also  Wanton's  letter  of  July  26,  and  Partridge's  of 
6  mo.  (August)  8,  1745. 


358  Correspondence  of  the 

has  been  spread  abroad  by  Agent  Kilby  here,  and 
perhaps  the  Boston  People  too  may  have  falsly  pre- 
possest  Com!  Warren  to  make  him  write  home  as  he 
did  (if  he  wrote  any  thing  at  all  about  it),  this  I 
looked  upon  as  my  duty  to  advertize  thee  off  in  time 
that  I  may  receive  thy  Answer  w'*"  a  further  Vindi- 
cation/ 

Possibly  some  designing  People  may  (as  I  have 
heard)  been  traducing  me  too  to  the  People  of  the 
Colony  As  if  I  were  not  true  to  the  Trust  they  had 
reposed  in  me. 

If  any  such  Reports  sh*^  have  been  out  I  almost 
assure  my  Self  from  the  Experience  the  Colony  have 
had  of  my  fidelity  so  many  years  that  they  cannot 
gain  any  Credit  with  the  Gentlemen  of  the  Adminis- 
tration, for  it  is  so  rediculous  in  itself  that  I  hardly 
thought  it  hardly  worth  my  while  to  take  notice  off. 
I  do  assure  thee  that  I  have  no  design  to  do  any 
thing  to  the  prejudice  of  the  Colony  or  to  endeavour 
to  vacate  or  alter  the  Constitution  or  Privilidges  of 
yo!"  Charter  directly  or  indirectly  or  to  take  any  Steps 
of  that  kind  I  never  did,  nor  had  I  ever  any  such 
thoughts  harbourd  in  my  breast ;  but  have  always 
endeavourd  to  vindicate  and  Support  the  said  Col- 
onys  Rights  and  Priviledges,  and  I  challenge  the 
greatest  of  my  Enemys  to  make  the  Contrary  appear. 
On  the  20  Inst  Cap'  Montague  arrivd  Express  from 
Cape  Briton  w"'  an  acco'  of  the  Surrender  of  that 
Place  to  the  English  to  the  great  Rejoycing  of  the 

1  The  Assembly  had  already,  in  June,  taken  measures  to  vindicate  the  somewhat 
cautious  attitude  of  Rhode  Island  toward  the  Cape  Breton  expedition.  See  Col.  Rec. 
of  R.  /.,  v.  123,  and  letter  of  Wanton  to  Partridge,  July  26,  1745. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        359 

People  here  and  we  have  need  of  it  (as  they  say)  for 
our  Affairs  go  but  in  differently  on  as  to  the  Land 
War.     I  am  w*''  respects  to  thy  Self  and  the  Gentle- 
men of  the  Council  and  House  of  Representatives 
Thy  and  their  ffaithfull  ffr"^ 

RP  Partridge 

The  Governm*  are  about  to  send  Ships  for  1600 
Land  forces  to  carry  to  Cape  Briton  ^ 

To  Gideon  Wanton  Esq"" 

Governour  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and 
Providence  Plantations 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO   WILLIAM   SHARPE.^ 

London  5  month  the  22.  1745 
Friend  W"^  Sharpe 

As  the  Maidstone  Cause  ^  lately  heard  before  the 
L^.^  Com^.*  of  Council  was  thought  to  be  something 
of  a  Similar  Case  w'''  ours  respecting  the  Circum- 
stance of  our  Bound^  Cause,  And  in  as  much  as  the 
Lords  absolutely  refused  to  Suffer  their  Judgm'  to 
be  broke  in  upon :  I  think  it  makes  greatly  for  us  as 
being  a  good  precedent,  from  whence  we  may  con- 
clude that  they  will  not  permit  any  Review  or  rehear- 
ing to  be  allowed  in  ours.  I  therefore  intreat  that 
thou  wo^?'  exert  thy  Self  that  our  Report  may  be  no 

1  This  rumor  did  not  prove  to  be  well  founded. 

2  Enclosed  with  letter  of  July  23,  1745. 

8  In  1740  or  1 741  the  corporation  of  Maidstone  was  dissolved  by  a  judgment  of  the 
Court  of  King's  Bench  on  information  of  quo  warranto.  Efforts  were  made  in  1743 
to  secure  a  fresh  charter,  but  were  at  that  time  ineffectual.  Hasted,  History  of  Kent, 
II.  106;  Russell,  History  of  Maidstone,  204,  205. 


360  Correspondence  of  the 

longer  postponed  but  confirmed  by  the  Lords  Jus- 
tices in  Council  w*^**  I  shall  esteem  as  the  greatest  of 
favours  from  thee. 

as  to  the  Report  lately  advanced  against  the  Rhode 
Isl^  Colony  that  [they]  no  ways  Contributed  their 
assistance  in  the  Expedition  ag^.'  Cape  Briton :  depend 
upon  it  it  is  absolutely  false,  for  that  altho'  they 
had  no  Orders  about  it  from  Great  Britain  and  con- 
sequently it  CO*?  be  no  disobedience  or  disrespect  in 
them  to  the  Crown,  yet  in  the  first  place  it  is  notori- 
ous and  apparent  from  the  Publick  acco?  lately  come 
over  that  there  was  an  Armed  Sloop  of  War  belong- 
ing to  Rh*^  Island  at  Cape  Briton  with  our  Ships 
when  the  Place  was  taken,  and  I  am  credibly  in- 
formed that  the  Colony  Actually  raised  150.  Men  for 
that  Service  besides,  and  that  the  Merch?  of  Rhode 
Island  advanced  ;!^8ooo.  amongst  themselves  for  the 
said  Expedition  and  that  a  20  gun  Ship  was  hired 
by  them  w'^*'  they  employd  in  that  Service 

And  as  to  the  other  Story  of  their  harbouring  and 
protecting  the  Men  of  Wars  Men  and  not  suffering 
them  to  be  taken  and  restored  to  their  proper  Ships,^ 
I  doubt  not  but  it  will  prove  to  be  equally  false  and 
at  this  time  propagated  by  our  Enemys  to  serve  some 
Sinister  view.  I  desire  therefore  the  favour  of  thee 
to  contradict  those  malicious  Reports  wheresoever 
thou  mayst  meet  with  them,  w*'*'  will  be  doing  Jus- 
tice to  the  Injured  and  oblige 

Thy  Friend 

RP  Partridge 

1  See  note  to  letter  of  July  i8,  1745. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       361 

CAPTAIN    MUMFORD^    AND    OTHERS    TO    GOVERNOR    WANTON. 

May  it  Please  Your  Honour 

These  waits  on  you  per  Cap!  Griffith  and  Serves 
to  Acquaint  you  that  we  are  Save  arrived  here  And 
are  Received  as  part  of  the  army  by  a  Counsel  of 
war  And  as  we  ware  not  here  at  the  beginning  of 
the  Seage  it  is  thought  that  we  must  be  Obliged  to 
Stay  here  all  Winter.  Therefore  the  General  Ad- 
vised us  to  Inform  Your  Honf  it  is  absolutely  Neces- 
sary to  have  Twelf  Months  provisions  Sent  to  us  as 
soon  as  possible  For  it  is  Expected  That  we  Shall 
have  a  Vigeros  Atack  Early  in  the  Spring  so  that 
we  must  Earnestly  Desire  That  these  things  men- 
tioned in  the  InClosed  Invoice  May  be  Sent  to  us : 
We  also  Desire  to  know  in  what  Manner  our  Sol- 
diers must  be  paid  for  their  will  soon  be  a  months 
pay  due  to  them,  as  for  News  we  must  Refer  your 
Hon!"  to  the  Publick  prints  by  Reason  they  have  it 
from  more  Capable  hands.  Saving  that  Yesterday 
here  was  a  french  East  Indeaman  appeard  of  this 
harbour  and  the  Commodore  Sent  out  Two  Sixty 
Guns  Shipps  affter  her.  The  princes  Mary  Came 
up  With  her  first  and  gave  her  a  Broad  Side  and 
She  Struck  without  firing  a  Gun  She  is  a  forty  Gun 
Shipp  and  is  thought  to  be  worth  Three  Hundred 


1  Captain  of  the  first  of  the  three  companies  noted  in  May,  1745.     See  Arnold, 
History  of  Rhode  Island,  II.  147,  and  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  121,  123,  125. 


362  Correspondence  of  the 

Thousand   pound   Sterling/     We   are   your    Hon' 

Most  obedient  and  Hum'*  Serv*? 

r?  mumford 
William  Smith 
Joshua  Champlin 

Lewisbourg  July  24  1745 

To  The  Honourable  Gideon  Wanton  Esqf 
Governour  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island 


COMMODORE   WARREN    TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON.^ 

LOUISBOURG  July  25.  1745 

Sir 

I  have  the  pleasure  to  tell  you,  that  two  of  my 
Squadron,  have  taken  a  Rich  East  India  Ship,  and 
that  we  propose  to  sell  her  Cargo  here,  if  the  Mer- 
chants will  come  from  the  Collony  to  purchase  it. 

Herewith  I  Inclose  you  an  advertisement,^  which 
I  desire  you  will  get  Printed,  and  distributed  about 
your  Government,  in  order  to  the  peoples  being  here 
in  time  as  the  Season  is  now  far  advanc'd. 

I  am  in  daily  expectation  of  the  Provisions  and 
men,  that  I  wrote  to  you  for,  for  the  protection  of 
this  Important  Garrison. 

I  am  with  great  Regard  Sf 

Yy  Most  Obedient  humble  Servant 

P  Warren 

Hon*"!^  Gideon  Wanton  EsqT 

1  See  Warren's  letter  of  July  25,  1745. 

2  Printed  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /,,  V.  139.  8  See  enclosure. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       363 

[Enclosure.] 

LouiSBOURG  July  25*^  174s 

Whereas  a  very  valuable  French  East  India  Ship 
from  Bengal  called  the  Charmont,  was  lately  taken 
by  Two  of  his  Majesty's  Ships  of  Commodore  War- 
rens Squadron,  and  is  brought  into  this  Port,  having 
on  board  a  large  Quantity  of  Muslins  of  various 
Sorts,  plain  and  embroidered,  and  all  other  Sorts  of 
Cottons,  a  large  Quantity  of  Handkerchiefs  of  vari- 
ous Sorts  for  men  and  Women,  plain  and  embroid- 
ered, Seersuccers,  a  large  Quantity  of  raw  Silk  and 
Kirman  Wool,  Table  Linnen,  a  large  Quantity  of 
pepper,  and  a  variety  of  other  valuable  Merchandise 
yet  unknown  —  This  is  to  notifie  all  persons  inclin- 
ing to  purchase  any  of  said  Goods,  that  the  above 
mentioned  Ship  and  Cargo  will  be  condemned  in 
this  port,  and  the  Sale  of  said  Cargo  will  begin  in 
about  a  Month  from  this  Date 

P  Warren 


GOVERNOR    WANTON    TO    RICHARD    PARTRIDGE. 

Newport  July  26'!'  1745 

As  the  Agent  for  the  Province  of  the  Massachu- 
setts Bay  has  been  very  liberal  in  his  Aspersions 
against  this  Colony  and  as  we  suspect  that  he  will 
misrepresent  our  Conduct  in  Regard  to  the  Cape 
Breton  Expedition  the  General  Assembly  have  di- 
rected that  a  true  Account  of  what  We  have  done 
be  given  You  and  that  You  be  inform'd  of  those  Cir- 


364  Correspondence  of  the 

cumstances  that  will  justify  our  Conduct  and  which 
You  are  to  make  Use  of  to  vindicate  Us  if  there  be 
Occasion.^ 

It  is  well  known  this  Colony  has  always  distin- 
guis'd  it  self  by  it's  Zeal  and  Readiness  in  all  Expe- 
ditions directed  by  the  Crown,  and  has  ever  sent 
more  than  it's  equal  Proportion  of  men,  as  in  the 
Expeditions  against  Canada  and  Port  Royal  formerly, 
and  now  lately  in  the  Expedition  to  Carthagena  we 
just  sent  as  many  Companies  as  Connecticut  tho'  so 
much  larger  than  this  Colony,  and  afterwards  sent 
fifty  Recruits  and  were  raising  more  when  ordered 
to  disband  them. 

The  Reduction  of  Louisbourgh  We  always  Under- 
stood to  be  of  very  great  Importance  to  the  british 
Plantations  and  Commerce,  and  therefore  expected 
and  hoped  it  would  be  undertaken  in  the  Course  of 
this  War ;  but  we  thought  it  too  difficult  and  expen- 
sive for  New-England  alone,  the  Scheme  You  sent 
Us  over  in  the  Fall,  We  understood  to  be  under  the 
Consideration  of  the  Ministry,^  but  as  we  had  receiv'd 
no  Intimation  that  it  was  approved  of,  and  no  Orders 
about  it.  We  were  surpris'd  with  the  news  that  the 
Province  had  voted  to  undertake  the  Conquest  of 
Cape  Breton,  without  previously  consulting  their 
Neighbours.  At  first  while  it  was  supposed  the 
Governor  of  Boston  had  secret  Instructions  to  raise 
Men  and  an  Assurance  of  a  sufficient  Addition  of 
Sea  and   land   Forces  from   England,   People  were 

1  See  letter  of  July  23,  1745,  and  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  123. 

2  Auchmuty's  Importance  of  Cape  Breton  to  the  British  Nation,  and  a  Plan  for 
taking  the  Place. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       365 

very  sanguine  and  zealous  in  the  Affair,  but  when 
it  appeared  that  he  had  no  Orders  at  all,  nor  so 
much  as  a  discretionary  Power  to  stop  some  of  his 
Majesty's  Ships  then  at  Boston ;  and  which  seem'd 
of  the  last  Importance  to  the  blocking  up  the  Har- 
bour, when  it  did  not  appear  he  was  assured  the 
Ministry  approv'd  of  the  Undertaking  at  present  or 
had  made  Provision  to  carry  it  on,  or  whether  the  State 
of  Affairs  would  permit  the  sending  such  a  Force  as 
seem'd  necessary  to  render  it  succesfull,  Who  can 
Wonder  if  we  were  afraid  to  precipitate  the  affair, 
which  must  needs  have  been  of  the  most  fatal  Con- 
sequence if  it  had  fail'd,  and  discourage  and  disable 
Us  from  assisting  again  if  the  Crown  should  think 
fit  to  direct  such  an  Expedition.  And  we  are  well 
assured  that  the  Expedition  was  carry 'd  but  by  one 
single  Vote  in  the  House  of  Representatives  at 
Boston.* 

The  Scheme  laid  before  the  Assembly  supposed 
the  Concurrence  of  many  Accidents,  the  Conse- 
quences of  any  one  of  which  failing  would  be  fatal, 
the  Pretence  to  surprise  such  a  Town  at  such  a  Dis- 
tance with  such  a  Fleet  and  army  appear'd  to  Us  as 
it  has  since  prov'd  a  most  vain  Expectation  and  the 
keeping  out  Supplies  from  the  Enemy  was  as  impos- 
sible with  any  Force  could  be  rais'd  in  New-England 
without  the  Assistance  of  some  Men  of  War,  two 
french  Men  of  War  of  fifty  four  and  sixty  Guns 
were  expected  early  in  the  Spring  against  which  we 


1  Such  was  the  fact,  and  Parkman  relates  that  a  tie  was  only  avoided  by  a  member 
of  the  opposition  falling  and  breaking  a  leg  as  he  was  hastening  to  the  House  to  record 
his  vote,     A  Half  Century  of  Conflict,  II.  88. 


366  Correspondence  of  the 

had  nothing  to  oppose  but  small  Vessels  from  ten  to 
twenty  Guns ;  And  it  is  now  universally  own'd  that 
had  one  sixty  Gun  Ship  got  into  the  Harbour  of 
Louisbourgh,  the  whole  Scheme  would  have  fail'd,  if 
our  Fleet  had  not  been  destroyed  and  perhaps  our 
whole  Land-Army  made  Prisoners  at  Cape-Breton 
Island  It  is  also  acknowledg'd  that  if  Commodore 
Warren  had  not  been  ordered  to  protect  Anapolis 
from  the  french  Invasion,  all  the  Men  of  War  that 
were  or  could  be  ordered  on  this  Expedition  would 
have  come  too  late,  so  that  the  success  is  now  by 
every  Body  allow'd  to  be  merely  providential.  Be- 
sides as  there  was  not  to  be  one  experienc'd  Officer 
or  Soldier  that  had  been  used  to  military  operations 
nor  one  Engineer  in  the  whole  Army,  We  could  not 
avoid  reflecting  on  the  fatal  miscarriages  at  Augus- 
tine and  Carthagena  and  also  on  the  Failing  of  the 
first  Expeditions  against  Port-Royal  and  Canada. 
We  had  no  Scruple  of  the  natural  Courage  good 
Sense,  Zeal,  Activity  and  Integrity  of  the  General 
and  Army,  but  we  had  heard  of  the  Difference  be- 
tween raw  and  inexperienc'd  Men  and  regular  Forces ; 
And  we  knew  our  People  were  ignorant  of  the  Art 
of  incamping  and  besieging  Towns.  Louisbourgh 
was  known  to  be  very  strong  and  to  have  a  Garrison 
of  regular  Troops  besides  the  Inhabitants,  Who  on 
such  an  Occasion  must  be  reckon'd  for  Soldiers  as 
well  as  our  own  People. 

The  prodigious  Expence  was  another  discourag- 
ing Article  ;  for  the  Colony  had  anticipated  all  their 
Funds  to  defray  the  Expence  of  the  fatal  Expedition 
to  Carthagena,  the  last  year's  Rate  for  maintaining 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        367 

the  Colony's  Sloop  was  unpaid,  the  carrying  on  the 
Law-Suit  and  the  defence  of  our  Charter  Priviledges 
against  the  Province  was  very  expensive  and  the  Bill 
depending  in  Parliament  about  Paper  Currency  was 
of  such  a  Nature  as  made  it  very  hazardous  to  emitt 
any  large  Sum  at  this  Juncture  before  We  knew  in 
what  Shape  it  would  pass. 

The  Colony  was  then  exhausted  of  Men  to  an 
uncommon  degree,  not  twenty  had  ever  return 'd  from 
the  West  India  Expedition,  We  had  lost  many  more 
in  the  Privateers  and  had  then  ten  or  twelve  sail  on 
a  Cruise  so  that  it  was  morally  impossible  to  raise 
such  a  Number  of  Volunteers  here  at  that  Time  as 
was  desired.  For  the  People  in  general  had  not  the 
same  Apprehensions  of  the  Danger  of  an  Indian 
War  or  the  same  dependence  upon  and  Expectations 
of  Advantage  from  the  Fishery  as  the  Massachusetts 
and  New-Hampshire  had,  and  which  went  for  to 
spirit  up  their  People  to  inlist  so  chearfully  as  they 
did. 

However  our  Gen!  Assembly  after  serious  delib- 
eration voted  to  send  the  Colony's  Sloop  well  mann'd,^ 
the  Merch"  of  the  Town  of  Newport  subscribed  about 
seven  thousand  Pounds  towards  the  Pay  of  two  Pri- 
vateers that  were  thought  necessary.  We  permitted 
the  Governor  of  Boston  to  endeavour  to  raise  Men 
and  even  offered  an  additional  Bounty  to  encourage 
them  to  inlist  and  put  our  selves  to  a  considerable 
Expence  on  that  Account  but  to  no  Purpose.^  On 
further  Application  to  Us  in  the  Month  of  March 
We  voted  to  raise  three  Companies  of  fifty  men  each 

1  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  I.,  V.  loo,  104.  2  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  105. 


368  Correspondence  of  the 

beside  officers,  and  in  order  to  raise  the  Men  if  it 
were  possible,  We  voted  them  both  higher  Bounty 
and  larger  Pay  than  was  offer'd  by  the  Province '  but 
there  being  no  Probability  that  the  Companies  should 
be  fill'd  in  Season,  after  We  had  put  our  Selves  again 
to  a  large  Expence  to  no  Purpose  We  were  forced 
to  disband  them,  however  the  Colony's  Sloop  well 
fitted  and  mann'd  convoy 'd  the  Connecticutt  Forces 
and  prov'd  of  singular  Service. 

Afterwards  when  we  had  Advice  that  Commodore 
Warren  with  a  Squadron  of  men  of  war  had  block'd 
up  the  harbour  and  that  the  land  Army  needed  a 
Reinforcement,  we  reviv'd  the  Vote  to  raise  three 
Compan^  and  actually  did  raise  them,  tho'  at  a  much 
greater  Expence  than  the  Province,  and  thd  We 
were  obliged  to  impress  Men  to  compleat  the  Com- 
panies^ and  on  further  Notice  that  there  was  a  Want 
of  Seamen  to  mann  the  Ship  Vigilant,  We  voted 
seventeen  Pounds  Bounty  a  man  for  Volunteers,  but 
not  being  able  to  raise  a  sufficient  Number,  We  ac- 
tually impress'd  several  ^  so  as  to  send  away  about 
seventy  to  Boston  and  tho'  the  good  news  of  the  sur- 
render of  Louisbourgh  arrived  at  Boston  before  Our 
Forces  sail'd  from  thence  yet  they  proceeded  the 
Voyage  and  are  there  now. 

If  we  have  not  done  all  that  our  Neighbours  de- 
manded Yet  You  will  observe  that  we  have  given 
them  considerable  assistance,  and  that  the  Assembly 
endeavoured  to  have  given  them  still  greater,  it  must 
also  be  observed  that  our  Assistance  has  been  thro' 

1  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  v.  102  et  seq.  2  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  113,  114. 

«  Col.  Rec.  ofR.  /.,  v.  117-119. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        369 

the  Providence  of  God  singularly  useful,  our  Col- 
ony's Sloop  sav'd  the  whole  Connecticut  Regiment 
from  a  thirty  two  Gun  french  Ship  by  the  Gener- 
osity, Courage  and  good  Conduct  of  Cap!  Fones,  he 
afterwards  intercepted  a  Brigg*  laden  with  Provisions 
and  Refreshments  for  the  Town  and  was  happily 
the  means  of  breaking  a  large  Body  of  above  a  thou- 
sand french  and  Indians  that  came  from  the  Siege 
of  Anapolis  and  were  imbark'd  in  the  Bay  of  Vert 
for  the  Relief  of  Louisbourgh.^ 

You  will  also  observe  that  no  Other  of  the  Planta- 
tions could  be  induced  to  give  any  Assistance  at  all  at 
the  first  (besides  Connecticutt  and  New  Hampshire) 
nor  afterwards  all  of  them  together  to  give  so  much 
and  such  effectual  Assistance  as  this  little  Colony 
and  the  Merch*^  of  the  town  of  Newport  chearfully 
afforded,  and  that  hereby  our  Sea  Coast  has  been 
unguarded  while  the  Enemie's  Privateers  have  cov- 
ered the  Sea,  there  not  being  a  Man  of  War  on  this 
Side  of  South  Carolina. 

We  are  far  from  desiring  to  lessen  the  Merit  of 
this  important  Conquest  and  are  willing  our  Neigh- 
bours should  share  the  chief  Glory  as  they  are  like 
to  reap  the  chief  Benefit.  But  we  would  not  will- 
ingly suffer  in  the  Opinion  of  the  Ministry  as  defi- 
cient in  Loyalty,  publick  Spirit  and  Zeal  for  his 
Majesty's  Service,  if  you  judge  it  necessary  we  will 
send  you  Copies  of  the  several  Votes  and  Acts  of 
Assembly  relating  to  this  Expedition  ^  and  if  You 
find  the  Charge  of  it  is  likely  to  be  born  by  the  Crown 

1  See  letters  of  April  26  and  June  26,  1745. 

2  See  Col.  Eec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  123. 


370  Correspondence  of  the 

desire  You  would  appear  in  our  Behalf  for  what 
we  have  spent  the  Proof  of  which  we  will  transmit 
to  you. 

In  Behalf  of  the  Government  I  am, 

Yl;  Assured  Friend 


RICHARD   PARTRIDGE   TO   GOVERNOR  WANTON. 

6  month  the  S"!   1 745 

Since  the  foregoing  we  have  had  an  other  Express 
per  Cap!  Rouse  ^  who  arrived  in  about  3  weeks  from 
Cape  Briton  w*  a  Confirm^  of  the  News  of  the  Sur- 
render of  Lewisbourg  to  our  Forces  there,  the  Guns 
of  the  Tower  have  been  fired  off  and  great  Rejoy- 
cings  made  here  for  the  Success,  and  I  am  apt  to 
think  when  the  Parliam'  meets  the  Expence  of  that 
Expedition,  or  good  part  of  it  will  be  paid  if  authen- 
tick  acco"  thereof  are  sent  over  and  due  application 
made 

I  was  lately  at  the  Sec'^  of  States  Office  where  I 
was  told  again  of  the  backwardness  of  Rhode  Island 
in  contributing  their  Assistance  tow"^^  that  Expedi- 
tion, —  whereupon  I  wrote  to  the  Gentleman  who 
informed  me  of  it  in  vindication  of  the  Colony,  A 
Copy  whereof  I  also  send  inclosed  w''''  I  hope  will 
take  off  the  edge  of  the  Prejudice  the  Ministry  may 
have  rec*^  on  that  acco!  ^ 

As  to  publ:  News  —  the  King  is  still  at  Hano!^  but 
will  probably  return  sooner  than  was  expected.  The 

1  One  of  the  Massachusetts  captains,  commander  of  the  Shirley,  of  twent}-  guns. 

2  See  the  following  document. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        371 

L^*  Justices  on  the  6  Inst  published  a  proclam^  offer- 
ing a  Rewa*^  of  ;!^ 30000.  for  apprehend  the  Pretend* 
eldest  Son  who  (as  it  is  pretended)  was  either  em- 
barked or  preparing  for  it  in  ord'  to  Land  in  Scotlf  ^ 
but  notwithstand^  we  dont  seem  to  have  any  thing  to 
fear  on  his  acco!  As  to  the  War  in  general,  things 
of  late  [word  missing]  but  with  an  indiff'  aspect  on  our 
side  I  mean  as  to  the  Land  War  especially  in  Flan- 
ders where  the  French  are  driving  almost  all  before 
them  they  being  above  double  the  Number  of  our 
Allies  there,  and  have  now  beseig'd  Ostend  w'^''  very 
probably  they  will  be  Masf  off  this  Summer  In- 
deed many  here  are  now  of  opinion  that  if  the  Eng- 
lish had  not  expended  so  many  Millions  as  they  have 
done  in  carrying  on  the  Land  War  but  had  employd 
the  Money  more  in  managing  the  War  by  Sea  and 
stuck  principally  to  that,  it  w^  have  been  much  more 
to  our  advantage. 

The  taking  of  Cape  Briton,  and  since  that  of  2  pro- 
digious rich  Span:  S°  Sea  Ships  (worth  abo*  a  million 
St!")  taken  by  2  of  our  Lond°  Privateers,  and  also  of 
4  or  5  French  Ind^  Men  (3  of  them  from  China) 
taken  by  4  of  our  Men  of  War  in  the  East  Indies, 
w^"''  with  several  other  late  valuable  Captures  must 
greatly  distress  the  Enemy  and  go  a  good  w^ay  tow''* 
making  amends  for  our  ill  Success  in  other  respects, 
for  the  rest  I  refer  to  the  prints  I  now  send  by  this 
Ship  to  my  Correspond!  And""  Oliver  Esq^  of  Boston 
to  be  forwarded  to  thee,  and  remain 

Thy  assured  lo :  Friend 

Rich?  Partridge 

1  The  young  Pretender  landed  in  the  Highlands  on  July  25. 


372  Correspondence  of  the 

this  I  intend  per  Cap*  Rouse  via  Cape  Briton 
they  say  Comodore  Warren  is  appointed  Gov^  of 
Cape  Briton  and  Gen!  Pepperell  is  to  have  a  Regi- 
ment w^''  will  be  worth  to  him  about  ^1400.  a  ye' 
Sterling.* 

Gideon  Wanton  Esqr 

Governour  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and 
Providence  Plantations. 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE  2   TO    THOMAS    RAMSDEN.^ 

Friend  Tho :  Ramsden 

I  am  obliged  to  thee  for  the  hint  thou  hast  given 
me  of  the  Complaint  that  has  been  lately  wrote  over 
against  the  Colony  of  Rh"^  Island  for  their  backward- 
ness in  joyning  their  assistance  tow'^'  the  Expedition 
against  Cape  Briton. 

Upon  w''*'  I  take  the  liberty  in  Justice  to  the  Colony 
to  send  thee  the  foU^  observa"  in  their  Vindication. 

Now  altho'  there  are  disputes  depending  between 
that  Governm*  (which  is  but  a  small  Colony)  and 
that  of  the  great  Province  of  the  Massachusetts, — 
and  that  the  Said  Colony  had  no  ord"^  about  the  Said 
Expedition  from  great  Britain  and  consequently  it 
CO''  be  no  disobedience  or  disrespect  in  them  to  the 
Crown :  Yet  it  is  notorious  and  apparent  from  the 
Publick  acco'^  lately  come  over,  that  there  was  an 
Armed  Sloop  of  War  belonging  to  Rh'^  Island  at 

1  See  note  on  p.  335. 

2  Enclosed  with  letter  of  August  8,  1745. 
8  Secretary  to  the  Lords  of  the  Regency. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       373 

Cape  Briton  with  our  Ships  when  the  Place  was 
taken.  And  I  am  credibly  informed  that  that  Colony 
actually  raised  1 50.  Men  besides  for  that  Service  lat- 
erly  towards  the  reinforcem*  and  wo"^  have  procured 
a  Party  before  but  could  not  find  a  Sufficient  Num- 
ber of  their  People  willing  to  enlist  themselves. 

That  the  Merch*.'  of  Rh*^  Island  advanced  ^8000 : 
amongst  themselves  and  hired  a  20.  Gun  Ship  to  be 
employd  in  that  Service :  and  I  am  ready  to  think 
that  Comodr  Warren  (who  was  not  now  at  Boston 
himself)  must  have  been  imposed  upon  and  preju- 
diced by  the  Massach*'  People  respecting  the  Colony 
of  Rh"^  Island  or  else  he  wo*^  hardly  have  wrote  home 
as  I  understand  he  did. 

Their  Loyalty  and  obedience  to  the  Crown  hereto- 
fore is  well  known,  for  that  whenever  there  has  been 
any  Exped°  ord"^  from  great  Britain  to  be  executed 
in  North  America,  the  Rh*^  Island'*  have  always  paid 
due  Obedience  to  the  Crown  and  afforded  their  Quo- 
tas; perticularly  in  the  Wars  of  the  late  Queen  in 
the  Exped"  ag'.'  Annapolis  Royal  and  against  Canada. 
And  that  in  the  Sea  War  at  that  time ;  the  New 
England"".*  must  Confess  that  the  Privateers  from  this 
Colony  of  Rhode  Island  did  more  Execution  ag*.*  the 
Privateers  of  the  Enemy  that  infested  their  Coasts 
than  all  the  Ships  of  War  of  the  Massachusetts  or 
indeed  than  of  all  the  Colonys  in  those  parts  put 
together. 

I  hope  therefore  when  these  things  are  duely  con- 
sidered that  our  Colony  of  Rh'^  Island  shall  not  be 
censured  till  at  least  they  be  heard  for  themselves 
what  they  may  have  further  to  say  in  their  Vindica- 


374  Correspondence  of  the 

tion  and  that  till  then  the  Report  of  accusa"  against 
them  will  not  gain  any  Credit  ex  Parte 
I  am     Thy  obliged  Fr^ 

RP  Partridge 

Mark  laxe  5  month  the  30.  1745 

If  thou  thinkest  it  proper  thou  mayst  Communicate 
this  letter  to  the  Duke  of  N.  Castle. 

To  Thomas  Ramsden  Esq!" 

Secretary  to  the  L'l'  of  the  Regency 
At  the  Duke  of  N.  Castles  Office 
Whitehall 


lieutenant-governor  phips^  to  governor  wanton. 

Boston  Aug'.'  19. 1745 
Sir, 

The  State  of  Affairs  between  this  Government  and 
the  Eastern  Indians  being  in  such  a  Situation  as  to 
make  it  necessary  for  the  better  Security  of  his  Majes- 
ty's Subjects  on  the  Frontiers  exposed  to  their  Fury 
to  declare  War  against  them,  unless,  by  their  speedy 
Compliance  with  the  Demands  of  the  Government, 
they  should  prevent  it ;  I  do  now  at  the  Desire  of 
the  General  Court  in  this  Province  in  their  late  Ses- 
sion hereby  inform  your  Honour  of  Our  Proceedings 
with  the  said  Indians  in  order  to  prevent  a  War,  and 
the  Unsuccessfulness  thereof,  as  you  will  find  by  the 
inclosed  Copy  of  a  Letter  from  Governour  Shirley 

1  Nephew  and  adopted  son  of  the  Sir  William  Phips  who  captured  Port  Royal  in 
1690,  and  was  governor  of  Massachusetts  from  1692  to  1694.  The  second  Phips  was 
lieutenant-governor  of  the  colony  from  1731  to  1757,  and  administered  the  government 
during  the  absence  of  the  chief  executive. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       375 

to  the  said  Indians,  and  another  Letter  from  him  to 
Cpt.  Bradbury  Commander  of  the  Fort  at  S*  Georges 
River,^  directing  him  to  demand  Satisfaction  of  them 
for  the  Murthers  committed  upon  Our  Inhabitants 
by  some  of  their  People  (joining  with  the  other  In- 
dians) and  their  burning  their  Houses,  killing  their 
Cattle  &c.  with  Cpt.  Bradbury's  Answer  to  the  last 
mentioned  Letter. 

And  as  the  Common  Cause  requires  the  mutual 
Assistance  of  these  Governments  in  time  of  War 
and  Danger,  We  desire  the  Concurrence  and  Assist- 
ance of  your  Government  for  prosecuting  a  War 
against  these  Indians,  when  it  shall  be  declared  and 
furnishing  a  Quota  of  men  for  the  Defence  of  the 
Frontiers  in  this  and  the  other  exposed  Colonies ; 
And  altho'  some  of  these  Colonies  are  not  much, 
or  at  all,  exposed  to  the  Assaults  of  the  Indians,  yet 
as  the  others  are  a  Barrier  to  them,  they  must  judge 
it  highly  reasonable  that  they  should  send  Succours 
to  the  most  exposed  Places ;  and  especially  as  we 
are  all  equally  obliged  to  this  Duty  as  Subjects  of 
the  same  Prince  and  which  his  Majesty  will  justly 
expect  from  all  his  Colonies  in  these  Parts.  I  am 
Sir 

Your  Honour's  most  Obedient  humble  Servant 

Phips 

The  Honourable  Gideon  Wanton  EsqT 

1  See  the  two  following  documents. 


376  Correspondence  of  the 

GOVERNOR  SHIRLEY  TO  CAPTAIN  BRADBURY.^ 

Boston  July  22.  1745. 
Sir 

I  have  received  your  Letter  of  the  16*.*'  Instant  July 
giving  me  an  account  of  the  assault  Committed  by 
the  Indians  upon  your  Fort  and  other  places  near 
you  M*"  Milliken  tells  me  that  you  are  possitive  that 
you  saw  some  of  the  Penobscutt  Indians  among  the 
Assailants  and  particularly  that  you  saw  one  of  those 
that  had  been  in  under  a  pretence  of  Friendship  to 
inform  you  of  these  Designs  :  By  your  Letter  you 
seem  to  apprehend,  that  the  Penobscutt  Indians  are 
generally  in  these  Acts  of  Hostility  However  I  think 
it  will  be  best  that  if  any  of  the  said  Penobscutt  Tribe 
shall  appear  near  the  Fort  that  you  hoist  a  Flag  of 
Truce  to  call  them  in  to  an  Interview  with  you,  and 
if  you  can  obtain  any  Speech  with  them  I  would  have 
you  read  my  Letter  to  'em  which  I  sent  by  M""  Mil- 
liken  and  also  tell  them  that  I  am  informed  of  this 
Violation  of  Treaty  and  that  if  the  Body  of  the  Penob- 
scotts  are  engaged  with  our  Enemies,  I  shall  imme- 
diately declare  War  and  pursue  them  with  all  the 
Resentment  which  so  horrid  an  Act  of  Treachery 
and  Wickedness  deserves,  but  if  they  profess  that  the 
Body  of  the  Tribe  are  against  these  proceedings  and 
are  disposed  to  peace  I  expect  and  insist  upon  this 
proof  of  their  Sincerity,  that  they  deliver  up  those  of 
their  people  as  have  been  in  Arms  against  us  and 
have  Joined  with  the  party  of  Indians  who  have  As- 
saulted us  and  that  you  will  give  them  the  Space  of 

1  Enclosed  with  letter  of  August  19, 1745. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       377 

Seven  days  only  for  their  either  delivering  up  these 
murtherers  or  giving  five  Hostages  of  Some  of  their 
Principal  men  to  Secure  the  Delivery  of  the  said 
Indians  in  the  Space  of  Seven  days  more. 
I  am  Sir  your  Friend  and  Servant 

W  Shirley 

P.  S.    Give  me  a  full  account  of  these  affairs  with 
all  possible  Dispatch. 

To  Capt  Jabez  Bradbury 

Copy  examined  per  J.  Willard  Secretary. 


CAPTAIN  BRADBURY  TO  GOVERNOR  SHIRLEY.^ 

Georges  "^  July  29.  1745. 
May  it  Please  your  ExceW. 

The  third  day  of  our  being  Attack't  by  the  Indians 
and  before  I  reced  y!"  Excellencys  orders  for  so  doing 
being  desirous  of  knowing  who  of  the  Penobscotts 
were  amongst  our  Enemys ;  I  put  up  a  Flagg  of 
Truce  one  of  the  Indians  Came  in,  Capt° :  Bane  and 
I  went  out  to  the  Others  who  were  thirtyfive  in 
Number  Many  More  being  up  the  River  at  the  same 
time  burning  Houses  and  killing  Cattle  whom  we 
Saw  not,  Amongst  those  we  Saw  were  Nine  Ponob- 
scotts  the  Chief  of  whom  were  Sebohooset,  one 
Called  Rich  Outrea,  and  Paternion  Men  well  known 
here 

I  read  y'  ExcellT  Letter  to  them  thrice  that  they 

1  Enclosed  with  letter  of  August  19,  1745. 

2  The  fort  on  St.  George's  River. 


378  Correspondence  of  the 

might  fully  understand  it,  they  said  it  came  too  late 
and  added  that  we  had  broke  the  Peace  by  refusing 
them  Powder  at  the  Truckhouses  and  the  taking  S! 
Johns  Indian  last  fall. 

The  Man  Mentioned  in  My  last  letter  they  killed 
and  Scalp't,  we  bro'  him  in  and  buried  him  and  I 
hear  that  a  dutchman  at  Broad  Bay  was  killed  and 
scalp't  by  the  Indians  about  the  same  time  they  were 
here. 

Its  now  more  than  ten  days  since  we  saw  them, 
where  they  are  I  know  not,  but  suppose  they  are 
Preparing  for  More  Mischief  I  Expect  soon  to  see 
them  here.  I  hope  your  Excellf  will  send  seven 
Men  to  fill  up  the  Company,  And  also  Increase  the 
Number  if  it  may  be  thought  best. 

I  am  yf  Excell^.'  Most  Obed|  humble  serv' 

Jabez  Bradbury 

His  Excellency  Governour  Shirley. 
Copy  examined  per  J.  Willard  Secy. 


CAPTAIN    FONES    TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

LOUISBOURG  HARBf  20  Aug'.*  1 745 

Hon''  S^. 

This  per  Cap!  Cahoon  ^  Informs  you,  that  we  are 
now  bound  on  a  Cruize;  and  I  beleive  To  New- 
foundland. I  am  Surprized  that  in  the  one  Letter 
you  Sent  me,  you  gave  me  orders  To  wait  the  Com- 

1  Probably  John   Cahoone,  who  sailed  with   Fones  as  lieutenant  of  the  Tartar. 
Arnold,  History  of  Rhode  Island,  II.  146. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       379 

mod'?  pleasure ;  and  that  our  Commissary  sent  us  no 
Stores  of  any  kind,  the  Commod"^?  will  by  no  means 
part  with  me ;  and  provisions  are  extravagantly  dear. 
I  'm  Obliged  To  give  24s  per  Gall"  for  Rum,  and  for 
other  Stores  in  proportion,  four  of  my  people  are 
dead  :  many  more  Sick  ;  and  the  Rest  almost  Naked : 
w?  renders  the  Circumstances  of  my  people  Miser- 
able. Our  Circumstances  Considdered,  I  Impatiently 
wait  your  Orders  To  go  home,  for  News  I  refer  you 
To  Cap'  Cahoon ;  and  am  w'^  Respect, 

Hon*?  S^  yy  most  humble  Serv' 

Da^.^  Fones 

To  the  Honrable  Gideon  Wanton  Esqf 

Govern!  and  Commander  in  Chief  of  the  Colony 
of  Rhode  Island 


RICHARD  PARTRIDGE  TO   GOVERNOR   WANTON. 
From  the  Boston  Evening  post,  June  24  ;  1 745 

Newport  June  21. 
The  Governm*  of  Rhode  Island  have  passed  an 
Act  for  raising  a  Number  of  ablebodyed  Seamen  not 
exceeding  200.  to  be  sent  forthwith  for  manning  the 
Vigilant  who  are  to  have  ^17.  (old  Tenour)  bounty 
upon  enlistm'  to  be  paid  by  the  Colony :  The  con- 
duct of  enlisting  was  committed  to  Mr  Seth  Harvey 
and  Mr  Ezeck^  Hubbard,  Persons  very  capable  to 
serve  his  Majesty  in  this  affair  who  have  generously 
resolved  to  go  themselves  w**"  the  Men  enlisted.-^ 

1  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  ii8. 


380  Correspondence  of  the 

They  have  now  between  three  and  four  Score  able 
Saylors  with  which  they  design  directly  for  Boston, 
And  what  can  be  further  procured  will  be  sent  after: 
The  Land  Forces  will  also  Speedily  embark 

the  above  was  done  before  they  had  in  New  Engl** 
the  News  of  the  Surrender  of  Cape  Briton  to  the 
English. 

London  6th  month  the  22f  1 745 
Golf.  Wanton 

I  wrote  thee  of  the  8*  and  15'!',  Inst  of  the  Colonys 
Affairs  to  w'^''  I  refer,  this  now  only  Serves  to  ac- 
quaint thee  that  meeting  with  the  above  parragraph 
in  a  New  Englf  News  Paper  I  transcribed  it  and 
sent  it  in  a  Letter  to  my  Friend  Ramsden  of  the 
Duke  of  NewCastles  Office  as  a  further  Testimony  ^ 
of  what  yo^  Colony  have  done  w*^  respect  to  their 
joyning  their  assistance  in  the  Expedition,  and  now  I 
hope  the  Duke  will  be  fully  convinced  of  the  disposi- 
tion of  Rhode  Island  Colony  in  that  Affair  notwith- 
standing the  Reports  thrown  out  against  them ;  in 
vindication  of  whom  I  apprehend*^  it  my  duty  that  so 
they  might  not  lay  under  false  Imputations. 
I  am  Thy  assured  Friend 

Rich?  Partridge 
To  Gideon  Wanton  Esq' 

Govern""   of   the  Colony  of    Rhode  Island  and 
Providence  Plantations 
New  England 

1  See  Partridge's  letter  to  Ramsden,  of  July  30,  1745. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       381 

CAPTAIN    FONES   TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

Lewisbourg  harbr  the  23d  Aug*.'  1745 
Hon''  Sr 

Since  my  last  I  have  been  Obliged  to  Carry  Sev- 

erall  of  my  people  on  Shore  To  the  hospital  Some 

of  them  I  never  Expect  To  See  again  and  am  Obliged 

To  recruit  in  our  Land  Companys.    I'm  this  day  To 

Sail  for  Newfoundland  w^''  a  paquett  To  the   Gov' 

when  we  Shall  be  at  home  I  know  not. 

I  Conclude  Honf  Sr  y"^  To  Command 

Da^^  Fones 

P.  S :  I  have  this  day  Taken  up  provisions  for  6 
weeks  but  have  not  yet  an  acco*  of  the  price 

I  have  sent  Some  of  my  Sick  on  Board  the  Bearer 
Cap'  Cahoon  in  order  to  be  Carried  to  New  England. 

To  the  Honourable  Gideon  Wanton  Esq"" 

Gov""  and  Commander  in  Chief  of  the  Colony 
of  Rhode  Island 


GOVERNOR   LAW   TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

Newhaven  Aug"  1745 

I  rec'^  Yours  of  July  the  5'?"  1745  and  I  am  now 
to  acquaint  you  That  our  Assembly  (w''!'  finished  the 
last  night)  in  coming  to  a  Conclusion  to  furnish  the 
Garrison  att  Louisburg  with  350  men  to  abide  there 
till  the  first  of  June  next  unless  his  MajT  pleasure 
be  sooner  known,  so  that  they  may  be  dischargd,  200 


382  Correspondence  of  the 

of  w*'''  to  be  made  up  of  them  w*'.''  are  there,  and  1 50 
to  be  raisd  and  sent  to  be  commanded  by  three  field 
Officers  &c.  did  Resolve  That  if  your  Gov'  would 
joyn  them  with  an  1 50  men  or  more  That  you  should 
appoint  a  Maj'  to  the  Regiment. 

I  desire  therefore,  you  would  lett  me  know  your 
mind  seasonably  ab!  that  matter  that  I  may  conduct 
my  self  accordingly  in  appointing  our  Officers  :  in 
the  formar  Management  I  gave  a  Commission  to  the 
Lieu'  Gen!  and  Gov""  Shirley  gave  a  Com"  to  our 
Majr  Gen!  ^  the  like  doubtless  will  be  proper  for  us 
with  respect  to  this  Regiment  if  you  see  meet  to 
unite  our  forces  into  one  Regiment. 

I  can  only  inform  you  That  I  have  at  present  the 
Custody  of  the  Counterfeit  Plates  &c  but  the  men 
have  broke  the  Goal  are  fled  and  as  yet  not  recov- 
erd.^ 

I  must  also  ask  the  favour  of  your  Hon'  That  in 
Case  M'  Robinson  should  bring  forward  his  Reviews 
or  either  of  them  against  me  or  Esq*"  Brenton  That 
it  might  not  be  pushd  forward  before  M'  Hall  my 
brother  can  come  thither.  I  have  been  and  still  am 
likely  to  be  so  engagd  in  this  publick  Affair  that  I 
cannot  possibly  be  personally  present  at  your  Court  ^ 
and  much  incumberd  in  furnishing  out  M'  Hall,  and 
the  Cases  are  of  considerable  Consequence  to  me, 
and  as  I  know  the  Case  to  be  honest  on  my  side  so  I 
understand  it  to  be  even  universally  rec'^  among  you. 
be  sure  I  honestly  bargaind  and  paid  my  money 
more  than  forty  years  agone.     and  for  want  of  fair 

1  Roger  Wolcott.  2  See  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  130. 

8  No  further  reference  to  this  affair  has  been  found. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       383 

dealings  in  the  matter  I  thot  my  self  necessitated  to 
resign  up  one  third  part  of  my  purchase 

with  my  Regards   to   your   self  the  worthy  Dep 
Gov'  and  the  Gentlemen  of  the  Council  I  Subscribe 
Your  humble  Servant 

Jon™  Law 
the  hon''^^  Gov'  Wanton 


LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR   PHIPS    TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

Boston  Septem!  2.  1 745 
Sir, 

In  my  great  hurry  the  last  Post  Day,  I  omitted 
sending  your  Honour  a  Copy  of  my  Declaration  of 
War  ag'.'  the  Indians ;  which  I  should  have  been  put 
in  Mind  of,  if  I  had  had  any  Answer  to  my  Letter 
to  You  of  the  I9*^  of  August  last^  (to  which  I  would 
now  refer  you)  as  I  have  had  Answers  from  all  the 
other  Neighbouring  Governours  to  my  Letters  of  the 
same  Date  and  Import;  But  as  these  Governm'^  are 
all  United  in  Interest  and  under  One  Sovereign 
Prince,  I  would  hope  your  Government  will  not  dis- 
tinguish themselves  by  refusing  to  join  with  the  rest 
in  Pursuing  Proper  Measures  against  the  Common 
Enemy.  I  have  enclosed  Printed  Copies  of  my  De- 
claration abovementioned  and  of  my  Proclamation 
for  the  Encouragement  of  Voluntiers. 
I  am  Sir 

Your  Honour's  most  Obedient  humble  Servant 

Phips 

The  honourable  Gideon  Wanton  Esq' 

1  See  p.  374. 


384  Correspondence  of  the 

SIR   WILLIAM    PEPPERELL    TO   GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

Honour^''  S' 

I  writ  you  of  the  1 3^?*  ins'  ^  to  w'^''  must  refer  you, 
this  will  waite  on  you  by  Cap?  Smith  who  I  take  to 
be  a  Valueable  Gentleman  and  I  make  no  doubt  but 
that  you  will  give  Such  orders  that  the  deficiency  in 
the  three  Companys  you  sent  down  here  will  be 
made  up  and  hasten^  here  for  altho'  we  have  no 
Acco!  of  the  Frinch  Squadron  of  Man  of  Warr  at 
present  yet  we  may  Expect  a  Visit  from  the  Frinch 
from  Cannady  this  Winter,  for  as  this  place  is  of  such 
great  consequence  to  them,  we  may  be  assur^  they 
will  do  all  in  their  power  to  Obtaine,  therefore  I 
must  Arnestly  desire  that  you  will  hasten  down  the 
Sold'.'  and  order  the  Officers  to  their  posts  as  I  can 
truly  say  nothing  but  the  good  of  my  Nation  and 
Countery  that  bro!  me  here  so  nothing  Else  would 
induce  me  to  tarry,  you  will  not  be  unmindfull  to 
Send  Provishon,  Clothing  beding  &c  for  the  men 
Sent  from  y'  Goverm* 

I  am  with  best  respects  Honor^'^  S"" 

Your  Most  Obed?  Hum"^  Serv' 

\Y^i  Pepperell 

LouisBOURG  SeptT  20*?  1745 

Hon''!^  Gov'  Wanton 

1  Printed  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  143.  Pepperell  asked  for  twenty-eight  men  to 
supply  vacancies  in  the  Rhode  Island  troops.  The  Assembly  voted  the  men,  as  well 
as  provisions  for  eight  months,  and  £3000  to  pay  the  troops.     Ibid.,  V.  12S. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       385 

LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR   PHIPS   TO    GOVERNOR  WANTON. 

Boston  Sept!  23?  1745 
Sir, 

Since  mine  to  your  Honour,  I  have  receiv'd  a  Let- 
ter from  Gov'  Shirley  (a  Copy  of  whereof  I  inclose 
you)  ^  by  which  your  Honour  will  see  the  absolute 
Necessity  of  sending  Recruits  to  Louisbourg  for  pre- 
serving that  important  Place.  I  must  therefore  ear- 
nestly desire  you  to  send  your  Quota  of  Recruits  for 
that  Purpose  as  soon  as  possible.^ 

I  am  Sir, 
Your  most  obedient  and  most  humble  Servant 

Phips 
The  hon^.'^  Gideon  Wanton  Esqf 


GOVERNOR   SHIRLEY   TO   GOVERNOR    PHIPS.^ 

Louisbourg  *  Septem!  6.  1745. 
Sir 

Three  Days  ago  We  were  Alarmed  with  a  Report 
that  two  of  the  Seven  French  Ships  of  War  men- 
tioned in  my  last  had  been  seen  very  near  this  Har- 
bour by  a  Fisherman  who  said  he  fell  in  with  one  of 
them  and  came  under  her  Stern,  which  from  the  rea- 
son there  is  to  think  that  Squadron  cannot  be  far  off 
was  easily  Credited,  Dispatches  have  been  sent  by 
the  Commodore^  and  my  Self  upon  this  Occasion 
to  Col  Mascarene^  to  Apprize  him  of  the  Appear- 

1  See  the  following  document.  2  See  note  to  preceding  letter. 

3  Enclosed  with  letter  of  September  23,  1745. 

4  Shirley  arrived  at  Louisbourg  on  August  16. 

5  Commodore  Warren.  6  Governor  of  Nova  Scotia. 


386  Correspondence  of  the 

ance  of  this  Armament  with  our  thoughts  upon  it, 
and  that  upon  their  first  notice  of  their  making  him 
a  Visit  for  procuring  which  proper  Care  has  been 
taken,  he  might  depend  upon  Succours  being  sent 
from  hence  to  him  and  as  the  Commodore  has  had 
Intelligence  given  him  that  a  Scheme  is  set  on  foot 
by  the  enemy  for  assembling  a  Body  of  Indians  and 
Canadeans  very  speedily  in  the  neighbourhood  of 
this  place  to  be  ready  to  Surprize  it  upon  the  Arrival 
of  any  Force  from  France  to  joyn  'em,  We  have  the 
Utmost  reason  from  the  Attempts  which  were  formed 
last  year  against  annapolis  Royal  and  were  prevented 
from  being  carried  into  Execution  by  the  Expedition 
against  this  place,  to  expect  that  a  large  Body  of  the 
Enemy  from  Canada  (whose  fate  in  a  great  measure 
depends  upon  this  Islands  being  recovered  from  his 
majesty  by  next  spring)  will  Winter  near  us  most 
likely  in  some  part  of  nova  Scotia  (as  they  did  last 
year)  and  that  not  only  Artillery,  Warlike  Stores  and 
provisions,  but  OfHcers  and  some  Troops  will  be  sent 
from  France  this  Fall  and  Rendezvous  som where 
in  the  neighbourhood  of  this  Place  in  order  to  make 
some  Attempt  upon  it  by  the  first  opportunity  after 
Commodore  Warren  with  the  Squadron  under  his 
Command  shall  leave  it.  These  indeed  were  my  Sen- 
timents before  we  received  the  Intelligence  and  I 
have  already  Communicated  them  from  hence  to  the 
Governments  of  Connecticutt  and  new  Hampshire 
and  told  them  I  shall  look  upon  this  place  as  lost  if 
we  have  not  4000  Troops  in  it  by  the  middle  of 
march  at  farthest  but  it  seems  to  me  now  not  impos- 
sible but  that  even  that  time  may  be  too  late  for  us 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       387 

to  reinforce  the  Garrison  tho  I  hope  it  will  not.  you 
will  by  this  Account  see  the  necessity  of  the  1000 
men  last  Voted  to  be  raised  in  the  massachusetts 
being  Compleated  with  all  possible  Dispatch  and  I 
doubt  not  Sir  your  best  Endeavours  to  forward  those 
Levies  before  my  Return  to  Boston,  In  the  mean 
time  this  will  Retard  our  sending  a  Detachment  to  S* 
Johns  Island  to  Clear  it  of  the  French  as  We  designed 
before  now  for  I  shall  not  think  it  advisable  to  part 
with  400  men,  the  number  proposed  for  this  Service 
till  we  shall  have  waited  a  few  Days  for  the  Event 
of  our  late  Intelligence  concerning  the  French  Squad- 
ron which  may  possibly  by  our  Advice  Consist  of  19 
Sail. 

I  am  Sir 

Your  most  humble  servant 

W  Shirley 


ADMIRAL   SIR   PETER   WARREN   TO   GOVERNOR  WANTON. 

LOUISBOURG  Oct!  23"?  1745. 

Sir^ 

His  Grace  the  Duke  of  NewCastle  has  signified  to 
me  that  his  Majesty  is  determined  to  provide  for  the 
effectual  Security  of  the  valuable  Acquisition  made 
to  his  Dominions  by  the  Reduction  of  this  place  ; 
and  that  their  Excellencies  the  Lords  Justices  have 
orderd  two  Regiments  to  be  sent  here  from  Gibraltar 
for  that  purpose,  with  all  possible  Expedition ;  but 
as  the  Season  of  the  Year  is  so  far  advanced  as  to 
render  it  very  uncertain  whether  they  will  arrive  here 


388  Correspondence  of  the 

this  Fall,  and  as  it  may  be  expected  that  the  Enemy 
will  make  the  earliest  and  most  vigorous  Efforts  pos- 
sible next  Spring,  for  the  regaining  so  important  a 
Fortress ;  and  his  Majesty  having  done  me  the  Hon- 
our to  put  it  under  my  Protection,  by  appointing 
me  Governour^  hereof  and  directed  me  to  concert  all 
possible  Measures  for  the  Security  of  it,  I  take  Occa- 
sion to  represent  to  You,  Sir,  that  it  is  intirely  ne- 
cessary for  his  Majesty's  Service,  as  well  as  the  Hon- 
our and  Interest  of  the  Colonies  that  they  furnish 
Troops  for  the  effectual  Support  of  this  Garrison  till 
a  sufficient  Force  for  that  purpose  shall  arrive  from 
Europe,  and  that  they  be  sent  here  as  early  next 
Spring  as  the  Season  will  possibly  admit  of,  (which 
may  probably  be  the  beginning  of  March  at  farthest) 
inasmuch  as  if  the  Regiments  expected  from  Gibral- 
tar should  not  embark  this  Fall,  it  is  highly  probable 
this  place  will  be  closely  besieged  before  they  can 
gain  their  passage  hither,  from  so  distant  a  place. 

As  such  Precaution  is  absolutely  necessary,  I 
doubt  not  but  your  Zeal  for  his  Majesty's  Service, 
and  the  Interest  of  your  own  and  the  neighbouring 
Governments  in  an  Affair  of  so  much  Consequence 
will  prompt  you  to  use  your  utmost  Endeavours  that 
a  proper  Quota  of  Troops  from  your  Government  be 
sent  here  by  the  Time  proposed.  Sir  W""  Pepperell 
and  my  self  are  directed  to  draw  Bills  on  the  proper 
Officers  in  England  for  such  Expences  of  this  place 
as  we  judge  necessary  for  his  Majesty's  Service,  by 
which    we  shall   have  it  in  our  power  to  pay  such 

1  Warren's  commission  as  governor  of  Louisbourg  arrived,  with  the  regiments  from 
Gibraltar,  in  April,  1746. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Isla^td        389 

Troops  as  may  be  sent  here  from  the  Colonies  for 
that  purpose ;  and  they  may  be  assured  that  none 
of  them  shall  be  detaind  here  contrary  to  their  Will 
after  the  Arrival  of  Troops  from  Europe  sufficient 
for  the  Security  of  the  place.  They  may  also  depend 
upon  the  strictest  Justice  and  all  the  good  OflBces  in 
my  power:  and  I  make  no  Doubt  but  all  possible 
Encouragement  will  be  given  to  them  and  Others  to 
settle  the  Island.  If  the  Troops  from  Gibraltar  should 
arrive  here  this  Winter  I  shall  give  you  Notice  of  it 
as  early  as  possible,  to  prevent  needless  Expence ; 
and  I  am  well  persuaded  that  his  Majesty  will  make 
full  Satisfaction  to  the  Governments  that  have  been, 
or  shall  be  at  any  necessary  Charge  on  this  Occa- 


sion.^ 


I  am  with  much  Regard,  Sir, 

Your  very  humble  Servant 

P  Warren 

Hon''?^  Governour  Wanton. 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

London  8"."  the  30*  1745 
Gov^  Wanton 

My  last  to  thee  was  of  the  if^  Ult  to  which  I 
refer  Since  which  I  am  favour'd  with  thine  of  the 
9^^  f'^  last  and  Duplicate  of  that  of  the  4*!"  July,  and 

1  Warren  followed  this  letter  with  one  of  November  26  (Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  148), 
repeating  his  request  for  reinforcements,  and  in  response  the  Assembly  voted,  in  Feb- 
ruary, 1 746,  that  the  governor  write  to  Sir  Peter  Warren  respecting  a  quota  of  men  for 
Louisbourg  {Ibid.,  V.  158),  but  no  troops  were  voted. 


390  Correspondence  cj  the 

I  have  also  receiv'd  the  Gold  dust  per  the  Eltham 
Man  of  War  and  the  ;^ioo  Bill  of  Exchange  for 
Ace*  of  the  Colony  whose  Acco^  I  shall  Credit  for  the 
Same  and  purpose  in  my  next  to  render  Acco'  Sales 
of  it. 

As  to  the  Matter  relating  to  Cap'  Hopkins  I  intend 
to  take  care  to  Enquire  about  it  and  accordingly  was 
up  at  Westminster  at  the  proper  Office  where  such 
things  are  Cognizable  but  miss'd  seeing  the  Gentle- 
man belonging  to  it  So  shall  go  again  very  Soon. 

As  to  the  Affair  of  the  Boundary  I  have  a  Petition 
loged  at  the  Council  Office  to  the  King  Praying  that 
the  Lords  Committees  Report  may  not  be  stopt  and 
that  the  Massach".*  Petition  might  not  be  Counte- 
nanced but  rejected,  which  at  Present  lays  as  a  Bar 
in  the  way,  a  Coppy  whereof  comes  inclosed,^  I  have 
taken  a  great  deal  of  Pains  to  have  the  Matter  for- 
warded  to  a  Conclusion  without  this  Petition  but 
found  it  would  not  do,  and  now  to  be  sure  both 
Petitions  will  be  referred  to  the  Lords  Committee  of 
Course  to  Consider  them  and  give  their  Opinion 
thereupon  which  I  intend  to  hasten  what  I  can 
Agreeable  to  the  Colonys  Request  for  I  long  to  have 
it  Over. 

The  Parliament  met  the  ly'!*  Instant  wherein  their 
Time  has  been  pretty  much  taken  up  with  the  Pub- 
lick  Affairs  of  the  Kingdom  w":^  indeed  at  this  Junc- 
ture require  their  Attention  on  Account  of  the  Re- 
bellion In  Scotland  Promoted  by  the  Pretenders  Son, 
who  is  at  their  head  but  the  Government  have  Sent  a 
Considerable  Number  of  Forces  against  them  which 

1  See  the  following  document. 


Colonial  Goveriiors  of  Rhode  Island       391 

is  generally  supposed  will  quell  them  and  Cause  them 
to  disperse. 

Nothing  is  yet  Moved  in  the  House  of  Commons 
about  the  Paper  Currency  Bill,  I  am  upon  the  Watch 
that  when  anything  of  that  kind  is  Stirring  there,  I 
shall  Exert  myself  in  behalf  of  the  Colony.  I  think 
it  would  be  Prudent  for  the  Colony  to  be  Cautious 
of  making  or  emitting  any  Quantitys  of  that  Sort  at 
least,  for  Peoples  Mouths  will  be  Open  I  find  in 
their  Exclamations  against  them,  for  it  may  I  Doubt 
be  Streniously  urged  in  Parliam*  to  their  Disadvan- 
tage when  ever  they  begin  upon  the  Bill,  this  I  only 
recommend  as  I  apprehend  for  their  advantage  and 
Submit  it  to  their  Judicious  Consideration;  I  am 
with  due  respect 

Thy  assured  Friend 

Richard  Partridge 

9ber  14'!"  1745. 

Since  the  foregoing  I  have  been  again  at  the 
Proper  Office  to  Enquire  about  Cap'  Hopkins  Affair 
and  find  there  that  he  has  actually  reced  the  Sum 
of  Two  hundred  and  Seventeen  Pounds  f  Sterl?  for 
recruiting  and  I  have  acquainted  them  with  the  Com- 
plaints against  him,  and  the  Affidavits  but  they  shew'd 
me  a  letter  from  Col°  Gooch  which  came  as  I  can 
remember  with  his  Acco!  Inclosed  to  their  Office 
however  I  have  bespoke  a  Certiff!  of  the  Money  he 
reced  to  send  over  to  thee  ^  I  am  thine  as  Above 

R.  P 

1  In  the  March  sessions  of  1745  ^^^  governor  was  instructed  to  write  to  the  agent 
"  respecting  the  supposed  false  certificate  whereby  it  is  conjectured "  that  Captain 


392  Correspondence  of  the 

PETITION   OF    RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    GEORGE    11.^ 

To  George  the  second  King  of  Great  Britain  &ca.  in 

Council 

The  humble  petition  of  Richard  Partridge  Agent 
for  and  on  behalf  of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island 
and  Providence  Plantations. 

Sheweth  That  there  has  been  for  a  long  time  a 
dispute  depending  between  the  said  Colony  and 
the  Province  of  the  Massachusetts  Bay  touching  the 
Boundary  or  dividing  line  betwixt  them. 

That  after  many  fruitless  attempts  to  adjust  and 
settle  the  same  and  after  diverse  Expensive  Hearings 
in  consequence  of  a  Petition  to  the  King  in  Council 
for  that  purpose,  a  Commission  was  issued  under  the 
great  Scale  appointing  Commiss"  to  determine  the 
said  disputed  Line  on  the  Spot  in  New  England 
which  accordingly  was  done,  and  a  Return  duely 
made  thereof  but  as  neither  Party  had  liberty  of 
Appealing  to  the  King,  both  sides  made  their  hum- 
ble Appeal  against  the  said  Commissioners  Judg- 
ment and  determination  and  both  the  said  Appeals 
were  referr'd  to  the  Lords  Committees  of  the  Privy 
Council  for  hearing  Appeals  from  the  Plantations. 

That  after  a  great  length  of  time  and  a  most  heavy 

William  Hopkins  has  received  money  of  the  paymaster-general  "  for  forces  said  to  be 
enlisted  on  the  Cuba  expedition."     Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  loS. 

The  reference  is  evidently  to  Captain  William  Hopkins,  of  one  of  the  Rhode  Island 
companies,  who  went  to  the  West  Indies  in  the  Spanish  war  of  1740.  Hopkins  was 
sent  home  by  General  Wentworth  to  raise  recruits  for  filling  up  Colonel  Gooch's  regi- 
ment, and  his  instructions  will  be  found  enclosed  with  a  letter  from  Wentworth  to 
Governor  Ward,  dated  August  12,  1741.  See  also  letters  of  February  2  and  October 
8,  1742. 

1  Enclosed  with  letter  of  October  30, 1745. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        393 

Expense  the  said  Appeals  came  on  and  were  Sol- 
emnly heard  by  the  said  Lords  Committees  at  four 
severall  long  hearings,  and  their  Lordships  agreed 
to  Report  their  Oppinion  for  the  Affirmance  of  the 
Commissioners  Determination  made  upon  the  Spot 
without  any  Variation  from  the  same,  at  which  hear- 
ings the  Counsel  for  the  Massachusetts  had  full  lib- 
erty of  urging  every  Matter  and  of  giving  their 
Lordships  all  the  light  in  the  Affair  which  they 
thought  fitt. 

That  altho  the  said  determination  deprived  the 
Petitioners  of  more  than  two  thirds  of  what  they 
had  before  conceived  to  belong  to  them.  Yet  they 
(as  they  allways  have  done)  held  themselves  dutifully 
bound  to  Submit  to  their  Lordships  wise  and  equall 
Report  and  never  entertained  a  thought  of  doing 
otherwise. 

That  they  said  Lords  Committees  Report  to  the 
King  was  accordingly  drawn  up  and  the  Petition- 
ers were  exceedingly  concerned  that  several  Gen- 
eral Councils  should  successively  pass  and  the  said 
Report  not  be  layd  (in  the  constant  Method  of  pro- 
ceeding) before  the  King  in  Council  for  the  Royal 
Pleasure  thereon  whereby  this  dispute  of  so  great 
Expence  and  of  more  than  Fourscore  Years  con- 
tinuance might  at  length  be  brought  to  a  Period. 

But  upon  enquiry  into  the  Cause  thereof  the  Peti- 
tioners have  been  informed  that  one  while  a  Petition 
to  the  said  Lords  Committee  to  stop  their  said  Re- 
port was  presented  by  the  Massachusetts  which  after- 
wards they  thought  fit  to  drop  and  that  an  other  of 
the  like  kind  has  since  that  time  been  presented  the 
King  in  Council. 


394  Correspondence  of  the 

That  thy  Petitioners  most  humbly  conceive  that 
such  an  Application  affects  the  Common  Course  of 
Justice  in  Matters  judicially  depending  before  the 
King  in  Council  upon  Appeals  from  the  Plantations 
and  wou'd  be  a  precedent  of  the  most  dangerous  and 
mischievous  Consequence,  as  it  would  make  Causes 
endless  and  render  the  determinations  of  the  Lords 
of  the  Committee  vain,  and  of  no  manner  of  im- 
port, after  so  much  time  taken  up  therein,  besides 
the  Grievious  Expence  and  Inconveniences  that  the 
keeping  open  this  Matter  wou'd  occasion  to  the  Peti- 
tioners. 

Thy  Petitioners  therefore  most  humbly  pray  That 
the  said  Petition  of  the  Agent  for  the  Province  of 
the  Massachusetts  Bay  against  the  said  Report  of  the 
Lords  Committee  may  not  be  countenanced  or  admit- 
ted to  have  any  influence  in  putting  any  further  stop 
to  it,  but  it  may  be  rejected  as  a  precedent  of  the  most 
dangerous  Consequence  and  that  the  said  Report  of 
the  Lords  of  the  Committee  in  the  said  Appeals  may 
be  layd  before  the  King  in  Council  for  the  Royal 
Pleasure  in  the  same  manner  as,  and  according  to 
the  Constant  Course  of  Proceeding  in  all  other  Judi- 
ciall  Appeals  whatsoever. 

All  which  is  humbly  Submitted 

R  P 

London.  28.  Octof  1745 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       395 

LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR   PHIPS   TO   GOVERNOR   WANTON.^ 

Boston  December  2. 1745 
Sir^ 

The  inland  Frontiers  of  this  Province  are  from 
their  situation  so  much  exposed  to  the  french  and 
Indian  Enemy,  that  the  Governm*  are  obliged  to  be 
almost  continually  employed  in  protecting,  or  exe- 
cuting Methods  for  the  Security  or  Defence  of  the  In- 
habitants ;  And  I  apprehend  the  Governmf  of  Rhode 
Island  are  concerned  in  the  same  Cause  for  the  Pro- 
tection of  his  Maj^r  Subjects  who  more  immediately 
are  exposed  to  the  Assaults  of  the  common  Enemy, 
and  will  readily  join  with  the  other  Governments  in 
his  Majesty's  Service  for  carrying  on  the  War  against 
them  ;  Indeed  at  the  beginning  of  the  french  War 
there  seem'd  to  be  so  much  of  a  peaceable  Disposition 
in  the  several  Tribes  of  Indians  that  the  People  of 
this  Province  began  to  flatter  themselves  they  should 
remain  in  some  degree  of  Security,  and  be  free  from 
the  Calamities  they  had  suffer'd  in  former  Wars,  but 
they  soon  found  themselves  disappointed,  and  the 
Indians  under  the  Influence  of  the  French,  notwith- 
standing all  their  Engagements  to  the  contrary,  per- 
petrated many  Acts  of  Hostility  and  Barbarity,  which 
render'd  it  absolutely  necessary  for  me  to  declare  War 
against  them,  a  Copy  of  which  Declaration  I  imme- 
diately sent  to  your  Honour. 

I  have  lately  by  Expresses"  from  the  Western  Parts 

1  See  letters  of  January  27  and  February  15,  1746. 

2  See  the  following  letter  of  Governor  Clinton,  which  (having  no  address)  is  inserted 
here,  because  it  would  probably  be  sent  to  the  Massachusetts  executive,  and  by  him 
forwarded  to  the  other  New  England  colonies. 


396  Correspondence  of  the 

of  the  Province  been  inform'd  that  a  large  Body  of 
the  same  Enemy  have  fallen  upon  the  Frontiers  of 
the  Province  of  New  York,  and  kill'd  and  carried 
away  captive  a  great  Number  of  the  Inhabitants. 
This  Proceeding  will,  I  doubt  not,  induce  your  Hon- 
our likewise  to  a  Declaration  of  War  against  them, 
and  will  also  influence  the  People  of  your  Colony 
readily  to  come  into  measures  for  prosecuting  such 
a  War  in  an  effectual  manner.  Upon  my  communi- 
cating the  Contents  of  these  Expresses  to  the  Assem- 
bly of  this  Province,  they  have  desired  me  to  write 
to  your  Honour,  and  acquaint  you  that  they  are  (as 
they  always  have  been)  in  a  disposition  to  concert 
Measures  with  the  Governments  of  New  York,  Con- 
necticut, New  Hampshire  and  Rhode  Island  for  their 
mutual  Protection,  either  by  appointing  Commis- 
sioners to  treat  for  that  Purpose  with  such  as  may 
be  appointed  by  the  other  Governments,  to  meet  on 
the  Borders  of  this  Province  or  in  Connecticut  or 
any  other  Place  that  may  be  agreed  on,  or  by  any 
other  ways  and  means  that  may  be  thought  more 
proper. 

It  has  long  been  the  Opinion  of  the  People  of 
this  Province  that  the  best  method  of  prosecuting 
the  War  and  the  most  effectual  Way  to  secure  our 
own  Frontiers  will  be  to  distress  and  annoy  the 
Frontiers  of  the  Enemy,  for  it  is  certain  that  with 
the  Assistance  of  the  Indians  in  our  Interest  we  can 
do  equal  and  greater  Mischief  to  the  French  Fron- 
tiers (which  are  setled  in  a  scatter'd  and  defenceless 
manner)  than  they  can  do  to  ours  ;  and  I  doubt  not 
we  should  soon  tire  them  of  carrying  on  the  War  in 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       397 

this  barbarous  inhuman  manner ;  and  if  they  will 
come  with  an  Army  and  fight  us  in  a  fair  open 
manner  we  are  able  and  ready  to  meet  them.  There 
seems  likewise  to  be  greater  reason  now  than  ever 
to  act  offensively  against  them,  as  they  have  unjustly 
extended  their  Settlements,  and  built  a  strong  Fort 
in  the  heart  of  that  Country,  which  by  the  Treaty 
of  Utrecht^  is  expressly  determin'd  to  belong  to  the 
Crown  of  Great  Britain,  and  if  not  interrupted  they 
will  in  time  grow  to  be  most  formidable  Neighbours 
to  these  Governments. 

These  are  Points  which  I  thought  it  necessary,  and 
am  desir'd  by  the  Assembly  to  write  your  Honour 
upon,  and  I  pray  you  to  communicate  them  to  the 
Assembly  of  your  Colony,  and  that  I  may  be  favour'd 
with  an  Answer,  that  so  I  may  lay  the  same  before 
our  Assembly  at  their  next  Meeting,  which  I  expect 
will  be  after  a  very  short  Recess. 
I  am  Sir, 

Your  Honours  most  obedient  humble  Servant 

Phips 

P.  S.    I  receiv'd  your  Honour's  Letter  of  the  29'?* 
of  Nov!"  by  the  Post 

The  hon"^  Gideon  Wanton  Esq' 

1  The  treaty  of  Utrecht  (1713)  declared  that  the  "  Five  Nations"  were  subject  to 
the  dominion  of  England,  and  the  English  interpreted  that  to  mean  not  only  the  origi- 
nal territory  of  the  Iroquois,  but  their  conquests  —  north  to  the  Ottawa  River,  and 
west  to  the  Mississippi. 


398  Correspondence  of  the 

LETTER   OF    GOVERNOR    CLINTON.^ 

New  York  25  Nov.  1745 
Sir 

I  received  an  Express  last  Tuesday  from  Albany 
that  Saraghtoge  (a  Settlement  of  this  province  Bor- 
dering upon  your  Frontiers)  was  cutt  off  by  a  party 
of  French  and  Indians,  I  had  too  great  reason  to 
believe  this  would  be  our  Fate  and  upon  my  Return 
from  Albany  I  sent  the  Assembly  a  message  to  guard 
timely  ag!  it  and  even  now  sent  them  another  mes- 
sage with  this  News  wherein  among  other  Things 
I  desired  that  immediate  encouragement  should  be 
given  to  the  Indians  of  the  six  nations  to  go  to  War 
upon  my  orders  to  which  they  have  paid  no  greater 
Regard  than  Voting  a  Fort  to  be  built  in  the  Carrying 
Place  ^  to  be  garrisoned  with  a  100  Men  and  Covered 
w\^  200  men  while  a  Building 

Last  night  I  received  another  Express  acquainting 
me  with  the  Damage  that  place  has  Sustained  with 
the  Numbers  of  the  Dead  and  those  taken  prisoners 
which  I  herewith  Inclose  and  to  which  I  can  now 
only  Refer  the  Assembly  having  the  Consequence  of 
this  Invasion  under  their  Consideration. 

I  now  begin  to  hope  the  Assembly  will  become 
Sensible  of  the  Danger  We  are  in  by  this  Insult  and 
that  they  will  provide  properly  for  our  Defence  in 

1  Enclosed  with  letter  of  December  2,  1745. 

2  The  Great  Carrying  Place,  between  the  Hudson  and  the  head  of  Lake  George. 
The  Ensrlish  built  a  fort  there  in  1709,  which  was  twice  rebuilt,  and  finally  received  the 
name  of  Fort  Edward,  by  which  the  town  which  occupies  its  site  is  known  to-day. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        399 

Conjunction  with  our  Neighbours  of  which  I  shall 
send  you  Notice  by  the  first  Opportunity 
I  am  Sir 

Your  very  humble  Servant 

G  Clinton 


RICHARD   PARTRIDGE   TO    GOVERNOR    WANTON, 

London  xber  the  25.  1745 
GovZ  Wanton 

My  last  to  thee  was  of  the  lo***  Inst  to  which  I 
refer  having  nothing  to  add  respecting  the  Affairs 
of  the  Colony  at  present  ;  but  can  hardly  forbear 
writing  to  thee  as  the  Nation  is  so  embroiled  with 
intestine  Wars  and  threatnings  from  abroad  too 
from  our  Common  Enemy,  believing  it  w^  not  be  un- 
acceptable to  thee  to  have  frequent  advices  at  this 
critical  Juncture. 

Since  My  former  letf  the  Rebells  have  been  march- 
ing back  with  great  pricipitation  and  confusion  tow^.^ 
Scotland  pursued  by  the  Duke  of  Cumberland  w**" 
about  4000  horse  who  a  few  days  since  in  the  Even- 
ing came  up  w^*"  their  Rear  a  party  of  abo^  2000.  and 
had  a  short  Skirmish  with  them  wherein  the  Rebells 
lost  about  30.  and  70  taken  prison^^  and  the  rest  made 
their  escape  in  fav'  of  the  night  carrying  off  their 
Wounded  w*^  them  tow^.'  Carlisle  where  its  supposd 
they  were  (when  the  last  acco'  came)  with  their  main 
Body  ;  The  Duke  expecting  his  ffoot  coming  up  and 
to  be  joyned  by  1000  more  from  Wades  Army  in- 


400  Correspondence  of  the 

tends  to  go  and  attack  them  if  they  dont  march  off 
before  he  comes  up/ 

The  French  at  Dunkirk  are  yet  continuing  their 
preparations  for  an  Invasion  upon  us  w""  abo*  12  to 
15000  Men.  and  100  Transports  but  we  have  a  con- 
sid^!'  number  of  M  :  of  War  in  the  Downs  under 
the  Command  of  Adm'  Vernon  who  keeps  constantly 
sending  out  to  gain  intelligence  and  has  a  watchful 
Eye  over  them  ;  a  pretty  many  other  Men  of  War, 
Armed  Vessells  and  Privateers  are  employd  to  and 
again  who  have  taken  and  destroy 'd  8  or  9  of  their 
Transport  Vessells  —  where  the  Storm  is  likely  to 
fall  we  can't  tell  yet,  but  its  supposed  it  will  be  some 
where  on  the  Coast  of  Sussex. 

We  have  lately  a  very  good  ps  of  News  and  con- 
firmed in  the  Gazette  w''''  is  that  there  is  a  Treaty 
of  Peace  actually  concluded  and  Signed  between 
the  Queen  of  Hungary,  the  King  of  Poland,  and  the 
King  of  Prussia,  at  the  mediation  of  our  King  ^  w''*' 
is  expected  will  be  attended  with  very  good  conse- 
quences for  us. 

And  we  have  an  Express  from  Adm'  Townsend 
in  the  West  Indies  that  he  has  taken  and  destroyd 
30.  of  the  Enemys  Ships  near  Martinico.^  The  Cape 
Briton  Fleet  w'^  the  Span :  prize  money  and  the  2 
French  East  India  Men  are  lately  safe  arrived    at 

1  The  Young  Pretender  took  Carlisle  on  November  15,  and  went  as  far  south  as 
Derby  in  Lancashire. 

2  England  signed  a  preliminary  convention  with  Prussia,  for  the  purpose  of  rees- 
tablishing peace,  on  August  26,  1745.    The  treaty  of  Dresden  was  signed  December  25. 

3  This  action  took  place  off  the  southern  end  of  Martinique,  from  October  31  to 
November  2.  The  greater  part  of  the  fleet  was  made  up  of  merchantmen  under  the 
convoy  of  five  or  six  men-of-war.  Two  of  the  latter  were  disabled,  and  many  traders 
captured.     Gent.  Mag.  (1745),  p.  629. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       401 

Plym?  as  are  also  all  our  Fleet  from  the  East  Indies  in 
the  Downs  abo*  14.     Sayl  w*  very  valuable  Cargoes. 

Cap'  Craigie  lately  bound  hence  to  Boston  was 
taken  by  the  French  in  his  passage  w**"  a  Cargo  on 
bo^  sayd  to  be  worth  upw^*  of  ;^ 20000.  is  retaken 
and  bro'  into  Bristol  —  but  the  Privat"^  of  the  Enemy 
have  of  late  taken  and  car^  off  a  pretty  many  of  our 
Merch*  Men  from  one  Place  or  other. 

No  alteration  in  the  Ministry  lately,  a  good 
understanding  is  between  the  King  and  his  Parliam! 
and  a  very  great  and  gen'  harmony  and  Unanimity 
seems  to  be  among  the  People  throughout  Englf  ag^' 
the  Rebellion,  nothing  done  yet  this  Sessions  about 
the  paper  Currency  Bill  in  the  House  of  Commons. 

Pursuant  to  the  Resolution  of  the  H°  of  Commons 
last  year  most  of  the  Cap'f  and  inferiour  Officers  of 
the  Fleet  who  were  complained  of  as  delinquents  in 
the  Engagem*  off  of  Toulon  have  been  Tryed  by  a 
Court  Martial  but  none  Capitally  convicted  —  the 
greatest  punishm'  any  of  'em  were  sentenced  to  (as  I 
remember)  has  been  to  be  casheerd,  rendered  inca- 
pable of  Serving  his  Maj*?'  for  the  future  and  one 
mulct  a  year  or  two^  pay.  Neither  of  the  Two  Ad- 
mirals Mathews  or  Lestock  have  passed  their  Tryals 
yet' 

Yours  with  respects 

Thy  assured  Friend 
Rich'^  Partridge 

The  following  is  a  paragraph  taken  out  of  one  of 
our  late  news  papers  —  viz 

1  See  note  to  letter  of  February  23,  1744. 


402  Correspondence  of  the 

London.  Of  the  five  great  Branches  of  the  French 
Trade  it  is  observed  that  the  i'*  That  to  (East)  Indies 
has  bro*  in  scarce  any  thing  since  the  beginning  of 
the  War  while  the  (our)  East  India  Comp*  have  been 
so  fortunate  as  not  to  loose  one  Ship. 

That  the  2f  To  the  Sugr  Islands  of  America  must 
be  almost  ruined  by  Adm^  Townsends  Success  after 
the  numberless  losses  it  had  before  sustained. 

That  the  3'^  to  the  Newfoundl"^  Islands  and  River 
of  S*  Lawrence  we  may  make  our  selves  intire  Mast'f 
off  by  the  possession  of  Cape  Briton. 

and  That  the  4'?"  To  the  Levant  must  have  greatly 
suff'^  by  our  Mediteranean  Fleet. 

The  Affrican  Trade  w''^  is  made  the  ^\  depends 
so  much  upon  the  American  as  the  great  Mart  for 
Slaves,  that  it  will  not  be  worth  keeping  if  we  drive 
them  out  of  the  latter.  Is  it  not  more  than  probable 
therefore  that  the  Trade  of  Great  Britain  will  revive 
and  encrease  in  proposition  to  what  her  Enemys 
have  been  hurt  if  a  proper  care  be  but  taken  after  the 
present  Convulsions  are  over. 

27'.''  ditto 

Inclosed  is  a  News  paper  of  this  day  with  some 
further  particulars  to  which  I  refer 

1 1  ""mo.  the  8.  1745 

As  the  foregoing  Copy  of  25  ult  is  not  yet  sent 
away  I  have  drawn  out  the  Colonys  acco*  w'*"  comes 
inclosed  the  Ball?  whereof  is  i;'438.i5.5  Sterl  in  my 
favour  and  nothing  chargd  therein  towards  Any 
parliamentary  Affairs  this  year  yet,  w*"''  must  come  in 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       403 

my  next  acco!  Paris  the  Solicitor  having  already 
sent  me  in  a  Bill  for  ;!^534.6  relating  thereto  since 
last  year  the  greatest  part  of  w''^  is  for  money  he 
paid  for  Copys  of  Papers  from  the  Board  of  Trade 
preparatory  to  our  defence  against  the  Paper  Cur- 
rency Bill  when  they  begin  upon  it  in  the  H°  of 
Commons  —  and  as  there  will  be  a  further  call  on  me 
for  money  I  must  desire  a  further  Supply  from  the 
Colony  which  I  hope  they  will  take  due  care  of  ac- 
cordingly 

The  Affair  of  the  Boundary  lays  as  it  did,  I  have 
been  earnestly  pressing  it  forward  both  by  word  of 
mouth  and  writing,  and  am  now  promised  that  it 
shall  be  consid?  and  laid  before  the  L°  Chief  Justice 
at  the  very  next  Comittee,  that  is  as  to  the  Report 
whether  our  petitions  abo'  it  must  be  referrd  to  the 
Committee  or  not,  so  we  must  yet  have  further  pa- 
tience unavoidably  especially  as  times  are  at  present 
circumstanced  with  the  Ministry  in  respect  to  the 
Troubles  of  the  Kingdom. 

The  Rebells  to  the  Numb'  of  abo*  7000.  w'''  the 
Young  Pret!  are  now  driven  back  into  Scotland  again 
in  the  same  Rout  they  came,  by  the  Duke  of  Cum- 
berP  except  what  were  taken  and  lost  by  the  way. 
They  left  about  400.  Rebells  in  Possession  of  Carlisle 
w*'*'  held  out  but  a  few  days  before  it  was  retaken  by 
the  Duke  and  they  all  made  prison'.^  We  are  send- 
ing a  formidable  Army  into  ScotP  to  encounter  the 
Rebells  there. 

As  for  the  Invasion  expected  from  France  nothing 
of  it  has  appeared  on  any  of  our  Coasts  yet  and  I 
hope  there    is    no  great  danger  from   them    as  we 


404  Correspondence  of  the 

seem  to  be  prepared  against  them  both  by  Sea  and 
Land 

I  am 

Thy  assured  Friend 

R?  Partridge 

The  French  have  now  stopt  the  Dutch  Ships  in 
seV  parts  of  France  and  doubtless  will  soon  proclaim 
War  ag''  them,  a  packet  w'*"  News  I  send  to  And' 
Oliver  Esq'  of  Boston  to  forward  to  thee. 

To  the  Governour  and  Company  of  the  Colony  of 
Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plantations 


GOVERNOR    CLINTON   TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

New  York  27.  January  i74f. 

Sir 

Persuant  to  my  Recommendation  to  the  Council 
and  Assembly  to  make  provision  for  the  Appoint- 
ment of  Commissioners  for  this  province  to  treat 
with  Such  Commissioners  as  are  or  shall  be  appointed 
by  the  Neighbouring  Governments,  upon  Concert- 
ing Measures  for  our  mutual  Security  Defence  and 
Conduct  during  the  present  War,  Committees  of 
both  Houses  have  Conferred  upon  the  Subject  matter 
thereof,  and  requested  me  to  appoint  Commissioners 
for  that  purpose,  who  are  to  make  Report  of  their 
proceedings  with  their  Opinions  thereupon,  That 
S'uch  measures  may  be  taken  Jointly  with  the  Several 
Governments,  as  shall  be  Judged  most  expedient. 

They  have  likewise  desired  me  to  represent  to  the 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       405 

Several  Governments  upon  the  Continent  the  Waver- 
ing Disposition  of  the  Indians,^  and  the  fatal  Coun- 
cequences  which  may  arise  to  all  the  Colony's  in 
General  in  Case  they  Shou'd  be  withdrawn  from 
their  Fidelity  and  Dependance  upon  the  British  In- 
terest: Whereupon  there  seems  to  be  an  absolute 
Necessity  for  the  Colony's  uniting  their  Endeavours 
at  all  Events,  to  secure  the  Indians  Effectually  in 
our  Interests  at  this  Critical  Conjuncture,  as  the 
Enemy  leave  no  Artifice  untryed  to  seduce  them,  hav- 
ing many  Jesuitical  Emissarys  constantly  residing 
amongst  them;  and  should  they  at  Length  prevail 
with  them  to  Revolt,  the  Frontiers  of  the  Respective 
Colonys  Subject  To  His  Majesty,  must  lye  Open 
and  exposed  to  the  Insults  of  the  ffrench  and  Sav- 
ages. 

As  a  Union  of  Councils  from  the  Several  Govern- 
ments is  thought  to  be  the  most  likely  means  of  De- 
feating the  Designs  of  so  barbarous  an  Enemy,  and 
Advancing  the  Common  Cause  of  His  Majestys  Sub- 
jects upon  the  Continent,  I  doubt  not,  but  you  will 
think  proper  to  Communicate  this  Representation  to 
your  Council  and  Assembly,  and  Recommend  it  to 
them  to  follow  the  like  Example  with  this  Govern- 
ment that  Commissioners  may  be  Appointed  by  you 
to  Answer  such  Laudable  Ends.^ 

A  Pilot  boat  is  just  come  up  and  acquaints  me 
of  one  of  the  Giberalter  Transports  being  at  the 

1  The  Six  Nations. 

2  Tlie  Assembly  voted  that  the  governor  should  answer  Clinton's  letter  {Col.  Rec. 
of  R.  I.,  v.  1 5  7),  and  in  May  measures  were  taken  for  appointing  two  commission- 
ers to  treat  with  those  of  the  other  colonies.  Ibid,,  V.  169.  See  also  the  following 
letter. 


4o6  Correspondence  of  the 

Hook  with  200  Men  on  board  for  Louisbourg  parted 
with  the  ffleet  8  dayes  ago  and  that  Adm!  Rovley 
had  taken  Genoa,  which  I  give  you  Joy  off  and  am 
Sir 

Your  obedient  humble  Servant 

G  Clinton 

Governour  of  Rhode  Island 


GOVERNOR   WANTON   TO  GOVERNOR   CLINTON.^ 

Newport  Rhode  Island  Feb?  15'."  i74f. 
Sir 

I  am  favour'd  with  yours  of  the  2^^  of  January 
Informing  me  of  the  wavering  disposition  of  the 
Indians  and  the  fatal  Consequences  that  may  arise 
to  all  the  Colonies  in  General  in  case  they  should  be 
withdrawn  from  their  fidelity  and  dependance  upon 
the  British  Interest  and  according  to  your  request 
I  have  laid  the  Same  before  the  General  Assembly 
of  this  Colony  and  recommended  it  to  their  Consid- 
eration :  who  have  directed  me  to  acquaint  your 
Excellency  that  they  are  heartily  Concern'd  that  the 
neighbouring  Governments  are  So  much  Expos'd  to 
the  Insults  of  the  French  and  Indian  Enemies  and 
are  willing  to  Contribute  anything  in  their  Power  to 
Secure  the  Indians  in  our  Interest:  but  as  this  Small 
Colony  by  its  Scituation  is  Exceedingly  Expos'd  to 
the  Attacks  of  the  Enemy  by  Sea  we  are  yearly  at 
a  very  Considerable  Expense  for  its  protection  and 

1  See  note  to  preceding  letter. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       407 

defense  and  have  also  been  at  a  vast  Expence  the 
last  Summer  in  sending  our  Colony's  Sloop  fully 
mann'd  and  three  Companies  of  Soldiers  to  Join  the 
forces  Sent  against  Cape  Breton.  Which  Soldiers 
Still  remain  in  Garrison  at  Louisbourg  in  the  pay 
of  this  Colony  in  order  to  preserve  that  most  valu- 
able Acquisition  and  prevent  its  falling  again  into 
the  hands  of  the  French.  So  that  it  is  utterly  out 
of  our  Power  to  give  any  great  assistance  at  present 
but  are  willing  to  do  as  much  as  is  reasonable  in  our 
present  Circumstances  towards  preserving  his  Ma- 
jesty's Interest  and  the  Security  of  the  neighbouring 
Colonies :  when  Your  Excellency  or  the  Commission- 
ers Appointed  by  you  Shall  Acquaint  us  what  Shall 
be  thought  proper  on  our  part  to  be  done,  they 
agree  with  you  that  a  union  of  Councils  from  the 
Several  Governments  is  the  Most  likely  means  to 
defeat  the  designs  of  So  barbarous  an  Enemy  and 
advancing  the  Common  Cause  of  his  Majesty's  Sub- 
jects on  the  Continent  but  As  your  Excellency  has 
not  Acquainted  us  of  any  time  or  place  for  the  meet- 
ing of  the  Commissioners  of  the  respective  Colonies 
to  Consult  proper  Measures  for  that  purpose :  the 
General  Assembly  did  not  think  it  necessary  to  Ap- 
point any  Commissioners  at  present  Untill  they  hear 
what  proposals  Shall  be  made  On  this  Occasion, 
this  sir  is  what  I  am  directed  by  the  General  Assem- 
bly to  Inform  you.  and  am  with  great  respect 
Your  Excellency's 

Most  humble  and  most  obedient  Servant 


4o8  Correspondence  of  the 

GOVERNOR   LAW   TO"  GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

MiLFORD  March  3?  174I. 

I  have  given  Orders  for  the  fitting  our  Sloop  De- 
fence for  the  Seas  and  should  be  exceeding  glad  if 
yours  and  ours  might  Cruise  in  Consort  as  in  times 
past/  if  any  Privateer  should  come  on  our  Coast  'tis 
likely  they  will  come  pretty  strong     I  am  Sr 

Your  faithfull  ffriend  and  obliged  humble  Servant 

Jon''^?*  Law 

To  the  Hon^!*  Gov!"  Wanton 


RICHARD    PARTRmGE    TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

London  ist  month  the  10'"  174^. 
Goif.  Wanton 

My  last  to  thee  was  of  the  I4'^  Ult.  when  I  wrote 
thee  needfull  of  the  Colonys  Affairs  per  Cap!  Brad- 
ford Via  Whitehaven  to  which  I  referr,  since  wich  I 
have  had  none  of  thy  favours  and  indeed  I  thinck 
I  have  never  Yet  rec^  any  more  than  two  from  thee 
viz:  of  4  July  and  9^?"  yber  last,  but  if  thou  didst 
write  probably  they  may  have  misscarryed,  the  great- 
est part  of  the  Ships  from  N :  E  :  this  Winter  having 
been  taken  by  the  French. 

The  Petitions  which  I  inform 'd  thee  were  lodged 
at  the  Council  Office  concerning  the  Lords  Commit- 
tees Report  are  now  referr'd  by  the  King  in  Council 

1  It  was  voted  in  May  that  the  governor  should  request  that  the  colony  sloop  of 
Connecticut  might  cruise  with  the  Tartar  from  Martha's  Vineyard  to  Sandy  Hook, 
until  October  i.     Col.  Rec.  of  R.  I.,  V.  168. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       409 

to  the  Consideration  of  the  Lords  Committee  and  I 
am  now  Pressing  to  have  a  motion  made  for  a  day 
/  to  be  appointed  accordingly  when  I  shall  hope  for 
our  desired  Success. 

As  for  Publick  News  the  Rebellion  is  kept  alive 
Still  in  the  North  part  of  Scottland  where  the  Duke 
with  the  Kings  Forces  are  pursuing  them/  for  the 
rest  I  referr  to,  the  Prints  Inclosed,  and  to  a  Pack- 
ett  of  them  which  I  send  per  this  Conveyance,  for 
thee  to  be  forwarded  by  a  private  hand  from  Bos- 
ton per  Andrew  Oliver  Esq""  and  Company  and 
Remain 

Thy  Assured  Friend 

R.  P. 

2?  month  the  7.  1 746 

This  comes  per  a  Ship  via  N.  York  just  to  acknow- 
ledge the  Receipt  of  thy  Packet  by  way  of  Holland 
w'^^  altho  is  dated  the  20 :  xber  yet  it  came  to  my 
hands  but  this  day,  and  am  glad  to  see  that  the  Col- 
ony have  so  well  vindicated  themselves  from  the  ill- 
natured  Aspertions  thrown  out  against  them  in  the 
Matter  of  the  Expedition  against  Cape  Briton  w*"^  I 
shall  not  fail  to  make  a  proper  use  of  as  there  shall 
be  occasion.^ 

As  to  the  Acco'  of  the  Expence  the  Colony  have 
been  at  in  the  Said  Expedition  I  intend  properly. to 
exhibit  the  Same  in  ord'  to  obtain  Paym',  But  the 
Massach^*  Agents  I  find  meet  with  a  pretty  deal  of 

1  The  defeated  rebels  were  pursued  into  the  Highlands. 

2  Seethe  governor's  letter  of  July  26,  1745;  ^'^o  *h^*  *°  Partridge  of  December 
20,  printed  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  145,  and  a  certificate  obtained  from  Roger  Wolcott, 
major-general  of  the  Cape  Breton  expedition,  Ibid,,  V.  155. 


4IO  Correspondence  of  the 

difficulty  respecting  their  demands  and  cannot  yet 
get  liberty  from  the  Ministry  to  throw  their  Petition 
into  Parliam*  but  are  in  daily  expecta"  of  it,  and  I 
don't  see  how  any  thing  can  be  obtained  without  that 
method  as  there  is  at  present  no  ffund  out  of  which 
that  money  can  be  issued,  The  present  Exigencys 
of  Publick  Affairs,  the  great  demand  for  money  on 
acco*  of  the  War  and  the  Rebellion  will  make  it  the 
harder  for  us  to  obtain  what  wof  otherwise  doubtless 
be  readily  granted. 

As  to  the  Boundary  Affair  it  is  not  yet  brought 
to  an  issue,  Lord  Chief  Justice  Willes  being  gone 
on  the  Circuit :  both  our  Petitions  are  now  to  be 
considered  by  the  Lords  Committee  :  of  this  more  in 
my  next  w'^''  I  intend  by  Cap'  Shors  in  the  Neptune 
directly  for  Rhode  Island  who  I  suppose  will  Saile 
in  2  weeks  time. 

I  beleive  it  will  be  expected  that  I  sM  produce  an 
Authority  in  writing  from  the  Governr  and  Compa^ 
under  the  Seal  to  empower  me  as  yo!"  Agent  to  apply 
to  the  Kings  Ministers  and  Parliam'  to  receive  the 
Money  for  the  Expence  on  the  Expedition,  and  to 
give  a  discharge  or  discharges  for  the  same  in  be- 
half of  the  Colony.  And  probably  also  that  the 
Acco'^  Sh^  be  signed  as  approved  off  by  Admiral 
Vernon  or  the  Comanding  Officer  at  Cape  Briton 
and  by  Gen'  Pepperrell,  for  I  know  by  experience 
they  are  pretty  exact  and  Strict  in  such  Cases  here, 
and  bare  letters  not  Sufficiently  regarded :  therefore 
it  wf  be  well  to  send  at  least  the  aforementioned 
Authority  to  me  as  soon  as  possible,  and  in  the 
mean  time  I  intend  to  prosecute  the  Matter  in  Parlia- 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       411 

ment  when  once  the  Massach"  Petition  is  exhibited  in 
the  H?  of  Commons,  their  demand  being  very  large 
w**  I  hear  is  abo'  ^150,000,  N  E :  Currency 

I  am         Thy  assured  Friend 

R.  P. 

I  wish  thou  hadst  sent  me  the  dates  of  my  letters 
w''^  Thou  rec"^  for  my  Satisfaction 

2*  month  the  i6. 

Since  the  foregoing  the  Lords  Committee  have 
appointed  the  19^^  Inst  for  a  hearing  of  Council  upon 
our  Petitions  concerning  the  Boundary  Cause  and 
we  are  preparing  for  it  accordingly,  and  probably  I 
may  by  this  conveyance  have  time  to  advise  thee  of 
the  Result  if  the  appointed  time  holds.^ 

And  now  understanding  the  Massach*^  Affair  re- 
lating to  their  Expence  in  the  Expedition  ags'  Cape 
Briton  is  likely  to  be  consid'*^  by  the  Lords  of  the 
Council  some  time  next  week,  I  have  drawn  up  a 
Petition^  to  the  King  in  Coun!  and  have  this  day 
lodgd  it  at  the  Council  Office  together  w'''  Copys  of 
Adm'  Warrens  and  Gen^  Pepperells  Lett'.'  and  of 
Maj'  Gen!  Walcotts  Certiff'  in  favour  of  yo!"  Colony 
in  ord'  that  they  may  come  under  the  Consideration 
of  the  S'^  Ld'  Committee  at  the  Same  time,  and  was 
this  morning  before  that  with  the  Duke  of  New- 
castle and  left  with  him  a  Copy  of  my  Petition  who 
promised  to  lay  it  before  the  King,  but  after  all  I 
am  perswaded  nothing  will  be  done  in  it  for  us  till 
we  exhibit  our  Petitions  in  Parliament  but  we  must 


1  The  final  report  was  issued  on  April  21. 

2  See  the  following  document. 


412  Correspondence  of  the 

not  do  that  till  we  have  leave  from  the  Ministry  for 
that  purpose  and  whether  it  will  be  this  Sessions 
or  next  we  are  uncertain,  but  depend  upon  my  dili- 
gence in  conducting  this  Affair  in  the  most  prudent 
manner  I  am  capable  off.  inclosed  is  Copy  of  my  s** 
Petition :  its  pitty  thou  didst  not  send  me  a  Copy 
of  the  Duke  of  N.  Castles  Order  to  assist  Comodf 
Warren  w''''  thou  mentionst  came  to  hand  the  12  July 
last/  please  to  send  it  me  per  first  [opportunity]  for 
it  may  be  of  good  Service  in  the  Solicitc" 

The  Rebellion  in  the  North  of  Scotl*^  seems  now 
to  be  pretty  well  reduced  as  thou  willt  find  by  the 
Prints  herewith  sent  to  w*'''  I  refer  and  remain 

as  before  R?  Partridge 

To  The  Governour  and  Company  of  the  Colony 
of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plantations 


PETITION    OF    RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    THE    CROWN.^ 

To  George  the  second  King  of  Great  Britain  &c^  in 

Council 

The  humble  Petition  of  Richard  Partridge  Agent 
for  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence 
Plantations  in  New  England. 

Shcwcth  That  the  said  Colony  of  Rhode  Island 
and  Providence  Plantations  which  is  a  Government 
but  of  small  extent  in  New  England,  joyned  their 
assistance  to  the   utmost  of  their  ability  with   the 

1  The  order  is  printed  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  132. 

2  Enclosed  with  preceding  letter. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       413 

other  Governments  of  New  England  in  the  late  Ex- 
pedition against  Cape  Breton  in  sending  their  Colony 
Sloop  of  War  Cap!  Fones  with  all  Necessary  War- 
like stores  and  well  manned  to  help  convoy  their 
Forces  thither  wherein  she  was  of  Singular  Service 
at  the  hazard  of  their  own  Sea  Coast  unguarded  and 
the  Navigation  exposed  to  the  Enemys  Privateers 
from  the  beginning  of  April  to  the  latter  end  of  Oc- 
tober during  which  time  she  was  in  the  Service, 
And  altho  the  said  Colony  had  been  drained  of  Men 
not  long  since  by  enlisting  and  sending  250  Men  in 
the  Expedition  against  Carthagena  of  whom  Scarce 
twenty  returned,  Yet  with  some  difficulty  they  raised 
Three  Companys  of  men  for  the  said  Expedition 
against  Cape  Briton,  who  (although  the  News  of  the 
Surrender  of  Louisbourg  had  reached  Boston  before 
their  Transports  sailed  with  them  from  thence  (hav- 
ing lain  some  days  for  Convoy)  proceeded  on  the 
Voyage  and  are  now  in  Garrison  there 

Since  which  the  said  Colony  have  lately  sent  a 
Vessel  to  Louisbourg  with  Cloathing  and  Provisions 
sufficient  for  their  Support:  And  on  notice  that 
Seamen  were  wanted  to  Man  the  Vigilant  Man  of 
War  of  60  Guns  (a  Prize  taken  from  the  French,)  the 
said  Colony  voted  the  raising  Two  hundred  men  for 
that  Service  allowing  a  large  Bounty  for  their  encour- 
agement to  enlist;  but  such  was  the  difficulty  not- 
withstanding, that  they  could  raise  but  Seventy  four 
Seamen  ;  and  they  have  since  received  Admiral  War- 
rens Letter  of  thanks  for  those  Men  which  they 
sent  thither,  with  an  Acknowledgment  also  for  the 
good  Service  which   Cap!  Fones  (of  their  Colonys 


414  Correspondence  of  the 

Sloop  of  War)  had  done,  as  also  General  Pepperrells 
Letter  advising  the  Arrival  at  Louisbourg  of  the  said 
three  Companies  of  the  Colonys  Men  there. 

That  thy  Petitioner  is  informed  that  the  whole 
Island  of  Cape  Breton  with  the  other  Islands  thereto 
belonging  have  been  by  the  indefatigable  Pains, 
bravery,  Courage,  and  Conduct  of  the  Land  Forces 
sent  thither,  together  with  the  assistance  of  the  Brit- 
ish Men  of  War  arriving  in  due  time,  intirely  reduced 
to  the  Crown  of  Great  Britain,  which  is  well  known  to 
be  of  Prodigious  advantage  to  this  Kingdom  in  gen- 
eral and  particularly  to  the  Merchants  and  Traders 
who  carry  on  the  Commerce  to  those  Parts,  in  that 
it  will  be  a  considerable  Nursery  for  our  Seamen, 
vast  quantitys  of  our  Woollen  and  other  Manufac- 
tures will  be  wanted  and  taken  off  in  time  to  come 
to  furnish  the  Natives  who  (whil'st  we  have  Posses- 
sions of  that  Place)  cannot  be  Supplyed  as  they  Used 
to  be  from  France ;  and  that  the  Fish  Trade  (which 
must  be  very  great)  will  allmost  wholly  fall  into  our 
own  hands  to  supply  Portugal,  Italy,  and  Spain,  the 
produce  whereof  will  always  centre  in  this  Kingdom, 
And  on  the  other  hand  it  will  greatly  distress  and 
prejudice  our  Common  Enemy  and  prevent  their  har- 
bouring of  Privateers  to  annoy  our  Trade  that  way. 

That  since  the  Acquisition  of  the  said  Island  there 
have  been  diverse  very  great  and  valuable  Prizes 
already  taken  by  means  thereof,  by  the  Kings  Men 
of  War,  amounting  (as  thy  Petitioner  hath  been  in- 
formed) to  the  Value  of  Six  hundred  thousand  Pounds 
Sterling  and  upwards  which  being  made  Prizes  of  at 
Sea  before  they  had  got  into  the  Harbour  of  Louis- 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       415 

bourg  (whether  they  were  bound)  the  whole  value 
belongs  to  the  Sea  Officers,  and  Captors,  and  no  part 
thereof  to  the  Land  Forces.^ 

That  thy  Petitioner  hath  lately  received  from  the 
Governour  of  the  said  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and 
Providence  Plantations,  an  Account  Authenticated 
of  their  Expence  in  the  said  Expedition,  amounting 
to  the  Sum  of  Thirty  Six  Thousand  and  Ninety  Six 
Pounds  one  Shilling  and  two  Pence  of  their  Cur- 
rency, exclusive  of  the  Province  of  the  Massachusetts 
and  the  other  New  England  Colonys  Charge  of  the 
said  Expedition ;  and  also  exclusive  of  the  Charge  of 
an  other  Armed  Vessell  of  War  which  was  fitted  out 
at  a  great  Expence.  £^q^o,  whereof  was  Subscribed 
towards  it  by  Merchants  and  others  of  the  said  Col- 
ony of  Rhode  Island  in  a  private  Capacity  which 
was  sent  to  assist  in  the  said  Expedition  and  no  part 
thereof  brought  in  the  said  Colonys  Account. 

And  that  thy  Petitioner  hath  Instructions  from  the 
said  Governour  to  make  Application  here  for  the 
Reimbursments  of  their  said  Expence. 

Wherefore  thy  Petitioner  humbly  prays  that  thou 
wouldst  be  pleased  to  take  the  Premises  into  thy 
Royal  Consideration  and  grant  the  said  Colony  of 
Rhode  Island  and  Providence  Plantations  such  relief 
therein  for  what  they  have  disbursed  as  aforesaid,  as 
the  King  in  his  Wisdom  shall  See  meet. 
All  which  is  humbly  submitted 

RiCH^  Partridge 

London  2*  month  on  April  15')'  1746 

1  See  a  list  of  prizes  taken  between  March  31,  1744,  and  April,  1746,  in  the  Gent. 
Mag.  (1746),  p.  270.     The  captures  made  off  Louisbourg  are  estimated  at  £101,600. 


41 6  Correspondence  of  the 

GOVERNOR   CLINTON    TO    GOVERNOR   WANTON. 

New  York  31.  March  1746. 
Sir 

I  acquainted  you  the  27  January  last,^  that  Com- 
mittees of  both  Houses  had  Requested  me  to  appoint 
Commissi  to  treat  with  Commissioners  to  be  ap- 
pointed by  the  Neighbouring  Governments,  touching 
our  mutual  Security  and  defence  during  the  present 
War.  I  have  accordingly  appointed  Commissioners 
for  that  purpose,  So  has  Governour  Shirley,  and  I 
hope  the  like  Steps  will  be  taken  by  your  Govern- 
ment without  delay.  In  the  mean  time  I've  Inclosed 
Abstracts  of  the  Minutes  of  the  Commissioners  of 
Indian  affairs  of  25  February  last.  Containing  the 
Resolution  of  the  six  Nations  of  Indians,  as  Sig- 
nified by  the  Interpreter,  in  Answer  to  my  Mes- 
sage, requiring  them  to  Enter  into  the  War  with  us, 
ao^ainst  the  French  and  Indians  in  Alliance  with 
them,  that  it  may  appear  to  you,  how  highly  it  im- 
ports the  several  Colonys  upon  the  Continent,  to 
Unite  their  Endeavours  with  this.  Effectually  to  pre- 
serve the  Six  Nations,  and  the  other  Indians  in  Alli- 
ance with  us,  and  them,  in  their  Fidelity  to  his 
Majesty,  and  Dependance  upon  the  British  Interest, 
as  all  are  so  nearly  Concerned  in  the  Consequences 
of  their  Revolt,  which  seems  next  to  be  Apprehended, 
since  they  have  refused  engaging  in  the  War. 
I  am  very  much  Sir 

Your  obedient  humble  servant 

G.  Clinton 

The  Hono^.'^  Gm^  Wanton  Esq^ 

1  See  letter  of  that  date ;  also  of  May  26,  1746. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       417 

GOVERNOR   SHIRLEY   TO    GOVERNOR   GREENE.^ 

Boston  May  12,  1746 
Sir, 

As  His  Excellency  Governour  Clinton  of  New 
York  has  sent  Circular  Letters  to  the  several  Govern- 
ours  on  the  Continent  as  far  as  Virginia,  to  propose 
a  Convention  of  Commissioners  from  each  Govern- 
ment to  consult  upon  Measures  for  carrying  on  the 
War  against  the  Common  Enemy.  And  I  find  no 
other  Fruit  of  this  seasonable  Proposal  so  much  for 
the  Honour  of  his  Majesty's  Government  and  the 
Safety  of  his  Subjects,  but  the  chearful  and  ready 
Compliance  of  this  Single  Province  (who  have  chosen 
Commissioners  for  this  Purpose)  1  think  my  self 
obliged  in  common  Humanity  to  my  fellow  Subjects 
(who  are  daily  suffering  under  this  bloody  and  sav- 
age War)  as  well  as  in  Duty  to  his  Majesty,  to  second 
these  Proposals  of  Mr.  Clinton  with  my  earnest  Soli- 
citations that  this  Affair  may  be  once  more  seriously 
considered  by  the  several  Governments  in  all  its 
Circumstances^ 

It  is  well  known  that  such  is  the  Situation  of  the 
French  in  these  Northern  Parts  (where  they  have 
not  one  single  Port)  and  such  the  Superior  Strength 
of  the  English ;  that  by  the  ordinary  Blessing  of 
Providence  upon  our  vigourous  Endeavours  their 
Destruction  would  be  inevitable;  but  if  the  Places 
that  are  now  free  from  any  immediate  Danger  by 
the  French  and  Indians  on  the  Land  part,  will  be 


1  Elected  in  May,  1746. 

2  For  the  action  of  the  Assembly,  see  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  169. 


4i8  Correspo7idence  of  the 

deaf  to  all  the  Solicitations  from  the  Colonies,  that 
are  most  deeply  affected  with  this  War,  for  Succour 
in  their  distressed  State ;  In  a  short  Time  the  Enemy 
will  in  all  probability  depopulate  such  unhappy  de- 
serted Provinces,  and  then  those  who  now  think 
themselves  in  Security  will  feel  the  Miseries  of  this 
bloody  War  and  too  late  repent  of  the  Neglect  of 
their  own  Interests  as  well  as  their  Disregard  to 
their  fellow  Subjects.  And  what  is  greatly  to  be 
lamented  in  our  present  Case  is  that  with  all  the 
Advantages  We  have  over  our  Enemies,  yet  for 
want  of  an  union  of  Councils  among  our  selves 
(which  renders  us  contemptible  in  the  Eyes  of  the 
Indians)  the  French  who  are  weak  in  themselves,  but 
in  the  strictest  Combination  with  one  another,  and 
the  Savages  that  dwell  among  or  near  them,  are  like 
to  bring  the  Six  most  powerful  Nations  of  Indians, 
on  this  Continent,  (which  have  hitherto  from  Time 
immemorial  been  firmly  attached  to  the  English 
Government)  over  into  their  Interest. 

In  this  Situation  of  Our  Affairs,  We  can  have  no 
prospect  of  any  thing  but  Misery  and  Desolation, 
unless  the  Several  Governments  will  join  in  the  firm- 
est League  against  the  Common  Enemy  and  carry 
on  the  War  with  Vigour  and  Resolution,  and  then 
we  may  hope  for  the  Blessing  of  Divine  Providence 
to  render  our  Designs  successfull.  I  must  there- 
fore intreat  your  Honour  to  lay  this  Matter  before 
your  Assembly  and  to  do  all  in  your  Power  to  Spirit 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       419 

them  up  to  Resolutions  becoming  the  Character  of 
English  men 

I  am  with  great  Regard  Sir 
Your  Honour's  most  Obed'  humble  Servant 

W  Shirley. 

The  Hon^^*  William  Green  Esqr 


GOVERNOR    CLINTON    TO    GOVERNOR   GREENE. 

New  York  26  May  1746. 
Sir 

I  have  Received  Your  Favour  of  the  20'^  Instant,^ 
Acquainting  me  with  the  appointment  of  Commis- 
sioners in  your  Government  to  treat  with  such  Corn- 
miss"  as  are  or  may  be  appointed  by  other  Govern- 
ments upon  this  Continent  for  their  mutual  Security 
and  Defence  against  the  Enemy;  which  I  conceive 
is  a  measure  of  the  last  Importance  in  regard  to  the 
Common  Cause,  as  the  French  and  their  Indians  are 
so  Enterprizing  and  barbarous  upon  our  Frontiers ; 
and  I  should  have  been  glad,  if  You  had  sent  me  the 
Names  of  Your  Commissioners,  that  the  Commiss" 
appointed  by  me  might  have  entered  upon  a  Corre- 
spondence by  this  Post  about  the  time  and  Place 
of  Convention  with  which  I  hope  You'll  acquaint 
me  by  return  of  the  Post,  that  no  time  may  be  lost 
in  bringing  about  a  General  Meeting.  In  the  mean 
time  I  conceive  some  part  of  this  Province,  somewhat 
remote  from  this  City  may  be  thought  a  Place  agree- 

1  Not  in  the  archives.     Stephen  Hopkins  and  William  Ellery  were  appointed.    See 
Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  v.  169,  170. 


420  Correspondence  of  the 

able  to  all  Partys,  as  it  tends  rather  to  the  Center. 
Especially  as  Merryland  has  absolutely  refused,  I 
have  but  little  hopes  of  Vergina  or  Phillidelphi.  I 
am  sir 

Your  very  humble  serv' 

G  Clinton. 

The  Hon''!^  Gov'  of  Rhode  Island. 


GOVERNOR   SHIRLEY   TO    GOVERNOR   GREENE. 

Boston  May  29'.''  1746 
Sir^ 

I  send  your  Honour  by  Express  a  Packet  directed 
to  you,  and  delivered  to  me  (with  others  to  the  rest 
of  the  Govern?  in  North  America)  by  Capt"  Town- 
ley  Commander  of  his  Majesty's  Sloop  the  Hinchen- 
brook  sent  hither  for  bringing  his  Majesty's  Orders 
to  the  said  Governours  for  raising  a  sufficient  Num- 
ber of  Soldiers  to  assist  in  an  Expedition,  his  Ma- 
jesty has  set  on  foot  for  the  Reduction  of  Canada ; 
A  full  Account  whereof  I  presume  is  contain'd  in 
your  Letter.^ 

And  as  your  Government  has  born  so  little  of  the 
Charge  of  the  War  hitherto,  in  Comparison  with  the 
Burthen  which  the  other  three  Provinces  in  New 
England  have  sustain'd ;  And  the  general  Advan- 
tage of  Success  in  this  Affair  will  be  so  great  to  it 

1  The  Duke  of  Newcastle's  letter  to  the  colony,  of  April  9,  1746,  is  printed  in  the 
Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  162.  It  notifies  the  colony  that  five  battalions,  under  General 
St.  Clair,  are  to  sail  for  Louisbourg,  to  be  joined  with  the  regulars  there,  and  as  many 
colonial  troops  as  may  be  raised,  for  the  reduction  of  Canada. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island      421 

I  presume  your  Assembly  will  engage  in  it  with  the 
utmost  Alacrity,  And  I  can  have  no  Doubt  but  that 
your  Honour  will  do  every  thing  in  your  Power  to 
excite  such  a  Spirit  in  them  on  this  Occasion  as  will 
highly  recommend  them  to  his  Majesty's  Favour ; 
And  I  dare  undertake  for  the  Massachusetts  that 
nothing  will  be  wanting  on  their  Part  that  is  fit,  or 
possible  to  be  done  by  them 

I  am  with  great  Regard  Sir, 
Your  Honours  most  obedient  humble  Servant 

W  Shirley. 

It  is  my  Opinion  that  a  body  of  6000  Men  at  least 
should  enter  the  Enemy's  Country  by  the  way  of 
Albany;  and  that  the  Colonies  ought  to  raise  10,000 
among  'em  in  order  to  proceed  in  the  propos'd  Plan ; 
and  I  shall  act  in  this  Governm!  accordingly/ 

The  hon^!*  William  Green  Esqf 


GOVERNOR   SHIRLEY    TO    GOVERNOR   GREENE. 

Boston  May  30.  1746 
Sir, 

I  send  this  by  Express,  to  Acquaint  your  Honour 
that  I  thought  it  very  necessary  for  preventing  In- 
telligence going  to  the  Enemy  of  the  intended  Ex- 

1  Three  hundred  men  were  raised,  to  be  sent,  with  the  Tartar  as  convoy,  to  Louis- 
bourg.  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  172.  The  troops  promised  by  Newcastle  never  came. 
They  were  sent  to  Portsmouth,  and  after  some  delays,  ordered  on  a  fruitless  expedi- 
tion against  the  coast  of  France.  Shirley  was  informed  that  the  demands  of  the 
European  war  made  an  expedition  against  Canada  impossible,  and  ordered  to  get  rid 
of  the  provincial  levies  (of  which  there  were  some  7000  at  Louisbourg)  on  account  of 
the  expense.     Parkman's  A  Half  Century  of  Conflict,  IL  169,  171,  172. 


42  2  Correspondence  of  the 

pedition/  that  all  the  French  men,  that  may  be  sus- 
pected as  likely  to  carry  or  send  such  Intelligence, 
should  be  immediately  confined ;  and  also  that  all 
small  Vessels  that  may  be  employed  for  such  a  Busi- 
ness should  be  stop'd ;  And  therefore  I  have  by 
Advice  of  his  Majesty's  Council  here  given  out  such 
Orders  with  respect  to  this  Government,  And  do 
earnestly  recommend  to  your  Honour  to  use  the  same 
Caution  in  your  Government  and  that  as  soon  as 
may  be. 
I  am  Sir 

Your  Honour's  most  Obedient  humble  Servant 

W  Shirley 

The  hon^?*  Governour  Greene 


RICHARD    PARTRIDGE    TO    GOVERNOR    GREENE. 

London  3?  mo.  the  31.  1746 
To  the  Goif.  Rhode  Isl"!  &cf'. 

Agreeable  to  what  I  lately  advised  of  our  Success 
at  last  in  our  Boundary  Cause  we  have  obtained  an 
Order  of  the  King  in  Council  for  afiirming  the  Lords 
Committees  Report  and  Judgm!  under  the  Privy 
Seal  w""''  comes  here  inclosed  and  doubt  not  but  it 
will  be  very  satisfactory  to  the  Colony. 

It  will  now  be  necessary  upon  receipt  of  this  Order 
immediatly  to  run  and  mark  out  these  lines  in  order 
finally  to  close  the    Contest ;   If    the   Massach'^  Bay 

1  See  letter  of  May  29. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       423 

would  authorise  Some  persons  to  meet  in  order 
jointly  to  mark  out  the  Boundary  it  w^  be  best,  But 
as  they  may  be  out  of  humour  and  may  decline  it, 
So  the  business  sh**  not  be  omitted  if  that  sh**  be  the 
Case)  but  I  think  it  had  best  be  done  by  the  Colony 
alone  rather  than  not  to  be  done  at  all.^ 

I  hope  now  the  Colony  will  consider  me  as  I  have 
heretofore  had  some  assurances  given  me  which  I 
must  however  Submit  to  their  Judicious  Considera- 
tion, And  our  Solr  Paris  expects  they  will  consider 
him  also  with  a  gratuity  over  and  above  his  Bill  of 
Costs,  for  that  in  the  Course  of  the  Transaction  of 
the  Affair  he  has  been  really  diligent  and  labourd 
Industriously  therein  and  was  also  instrumental  in 
our  procuring  what  we  have  obtained  of  our  Rights 
more  than  the  Gore  of  Land.  I  send  this  at  a  ven- 
ture to  meet  Cap*  Adams  in  the  Downs  who  is  bound 
to  Boston  so  shall  not  enlarge  but  remain  with  due 
Respects 

Thy  Faithful  friend 

R?  Partridge 

To  The  Governour  and  Company 

of   the    Colony   of    Rhode    Island     Providence 
Plantations 

1  Massachusetts  refused  to  appoint  surveyors  to  run  the  line,  whereupon  the  Rhode 
Island  men  laid  out  the  boundary  by  themselves,  and  the  questions  raised  by  their 
proceeding  were  not  settled  until  the  nineteenth  century.  For  the  act  appointing 
commissioners  see  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  197,  199,  Also  Shirley's  letter  of  January  5, 
1747- 


424  Correspondence  of  the 


GOVERNOR   SHIRLEY    TO    GOVERNOR    GREENE. 

Boston  June  2.  1 746 
Sir^ 

I  herewith  inclose  a  Proclamation  which  I  have 
issued  for  raising  Voluntiers  for  the  intended  Expe- 
dition, by  which  your  Honour  will  perceive  the 
Spirit  of  Our  General  Assembly  and  the  Disposition 
which  they  have  shewn  to  give  the  utmost  Encour- 
agement for  promoting  this  Undertaking/  which, 
considering  what  We  have  done  and  suffered  in 
the  late  Expedition  against  Cape  Breton,  is  beyond 
what  I  could  have  expected  from  them  ;  I  hope  your 
Assembly  (who  have  done  so  little  in  the  last  Expe- 
dition) will  not  fall  below  us  in  this 

I  can't  but  think  it  will  be  of  Service  for  all  the 
Governments  to  Enlist  as  many  of  their  neighbour- 
ing Indians  as  they  can,  provided  they  are  of  a  war- 
like Disposition  and  Friends  to  the  English  Inter- 
est 

I  am  with  much  respect  Sir 
Your  Honour's  most  Obedient  humble  Servant 

W  Shirley 

June  8"'  1 746 

since  my  writing  this,  which  shf  have  been  sent  by 
the  last  post,  I  hear  that  the  Governm!  of  New  Hamp- 
shire give  Encouragem!  for  raising  1000  Men  there, 
that  Connecticutt'^  has  given  Encouragem'  for  raising 

1  Massachusetts  voted  3500  men. 

-  New  Hampshire  sent  500  men,  and  Connecticut  1000.     Parkman,  A  Half  Century 
oj  Conflict,  \\.  169. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island      425 

600  Men  there,  and  as  many  more  as  shall  voluntarily 
enlist. 

W  S. 

The  Hon''?*  William  Green  Esq' 


GOVERNOR   GREENE    TO    THE    GOVERNOR   OF    HAVANA. 

Rhode  Island  June  14. 1746 

Upon  receiving  a  Copy  of  your  Excellency's  Let- 
ter To  the  Govr  of  Philadelphia  in  which  You  com- 
plain against  John  Dennis  a  Privateer  of  this  Place 
for  makeing  Slaves  of  22  Free  Subjects  of  the  King 
of  Spain/  The  Government  of  this  Colony  have  Ex- 
amined into  the  Affair  and  finding  that  9  of  the 
Blacks  taken  in  the  Galley  were  brot  in  here  by  one 
of  Dennis's  Consorts  and  condemned  as  Slaves  by 
the  Kings  Judge  of  Admiralty  without  any  Blame  on 
the  Part  of  s'?  Dennis,  They  have  Ordered  them 
to  be  Immediately  sett  at  Liberty,  and  I  have  wrote 
to  the  Gov!"  of  New  York  where  the  Rest  were  con- 
demned and  dare  assure  yf  Excellency  that  They  also 
will  be  restored  to  their  Liberty  and  Sent  Home  by 
the  first  Opportunity,  or  as  many  of  them  as  shall  be 
living.  It  appears  that  four  of  those  brought  in  here 
have  been  already  sent  back  to  the  Havanna,  three 
of  them,  to  wit,  Joseph  Peraro,  Manuel  and  Mingo 

1  The  first  mention  of  this  affair,  in  the  Assembly  records,  occurs  in  May,  1746,  to 
inquire  into  the  circumstances  of  the  detention  of  some  English  prisoners  at  Havana, 
evidently  as  a  reprisal.  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  170.  Arnold  says  that  twenty-two  Span- 
iards were  carried  north  and  sold  as  slaves,  and  nineteen  of  Dennis's  crew  held  as  host- 
ages.   History  of  Rhode  Island.  \\.  153. 


426  Correspondence  of  the 

by  way  of  New  Providence,  the  other  to  wit,  Pero,  by 
way  of  Jamaica :  One  to  wit  Ralph  Barka  is  now  at 
Sea  but  shall  be  set  at  liberty  on  his  Arrival,  and 
another,  to  wit  Lawrence,  is  dead,  so  that  I  can  only 
send  You  3  by  this  Flagg  of  Truce,  But  I  flatter  my- 
self Your  Excel'?'  will  be  hereby  fully  satisfied  of  the 
Honour  and  Good  faith  of  this  Government  and  I 
rely  on  your  Equity  and  Justice  to  release  and  Send 
back  the  men  You  have  hitherto  detained  on  this 
Account.  Had  your  Excellency  certified  to  this  Gov- 
ernm*  that  those  Spanish  Prisoners  were  freemen 
the  Cruel  Injury  you  So  justly  complain  of  as  con- 
trary to  the  Laws  of  Nature  and  Nations  had  been 
long  since  redress'd  or  had  we  been  truly  inform'd 
or  properly  apply 'd  to  relating  to  this  affair  there 
had  been  now  no  cause  of  Complaint  for  nobody 
can  more  abhorr  and  detest  such  Violence  and  In- 
justice 

Such  Acts  of  Violence  and  Injustice  thro'  the  Self- 
ishness of  private  persons  are  not  among  the  least 
Calamities  of  War  But  your  Excellency  may  be  as- 
sured that  I  shall  Endeavour  to  prevent  them  for 
the  future  and  If  I  find  any  other  persons  in  the 
Same  Situation  shall  Cause  them  to  be  Restored  to 
their  Liberty-^ 

I  am  with  the  Greatest  Respect  and  Esteem 
Yr  Excellency's  Most  humble  Serv* 

W  G 

To  Don  Juan  Franz^  de  Inumes  &c  Harrastitas 
Gov'  of  the  Havanna 

1  The  vote  for  restoring  the  Spaniards  is  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  176. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island      427 


GOVERNOR  GREENE  TO  GOVERNOR  CLINTON. 

You  will  See  by  the  Inclosed  Copy  of  Letters  from 
Gov!"  Thomas  and  the  Govy  of  the  Havannah  how 
much  it  Concerns  his  Majesties  Service  that  the  Span- 
yards  Carried  into  New  York  by  Cap!  Greenhill  (Den- 
nis's Consort)  and  made  Slaves  should  be  forthwith 
Sent  home.  Those  which  were  Condemned  here  by 
the  Judge  of  Admiralty  have  been  Restored  to  their 
Liberty  by  Order  of  the  Gen'3  Assembly  and  I  am 
Sending  them  home  in  a  Flag  of  Truce.  I  have  Ven- 
tured To  Assure  the  Spanish  Govr  that  Your  Excel- 
lency will  Cause  the  Rest  to  be  Set  at  Liberty,  And 
I  rely  on  yf  Compassion  to  the  Unhappy  Men  so 
long  detained  at  the  Havannah  to  send  as  many  of 
the  Spanish  Prisoners  as  can  be  readily  found  to  go 
home  together  in  the  Flag  of  Truce  which  I  shall 
dispatch  as  soon  as  possible.^ 

I  am  s!  y''  most  Ob  and  Humb  Serv! 

W  G 

To  G  C  Esqf  of  New  York 


GOVERNOR   GREENE   TO    GOVERNOR   THOMAS. 

The  Gen"  Assembly  have  ordered  all  the  Spanish 
prisoners  mentioned  in  the  Gov'  of  the  Havannahs 
Letter  that  were  made  Slaves  here  to  be  forthwith 
Set  at  Liberty  And  I  am  Sending  home  in  a  Flag  of 

1  See  preceding  letter,  and  note. 


428  Correspondence  of  the 

Truce  all  that  can  be  found  I  have  likewise  wrote  To 
Govr  Clinton  in  the  most  pressing  Terms  in  favour 
of  the  Best  who  were  Carried  into  New  York/  You 
may  Satisfy  the  Gov"  of  the  Havannah  that  this 
Governm!  Abhors  Such  Violence  and  Injustice  And 
that  if  he  had  Certified  us  those  Blacks  were  Free- 
men We  Should  have  Set  them  at  Liberty  notwith- 
standing the  Judge  of  Admiralty  had  Condemned 
them  as  Slaves.  I  doubt  not  you  will  as  readily  In- 
tercede wh  him  in  favour  of  Dennis's  Men  he  has 
so  long  detained  and  hope  y^  Good  Offices  for  them 
will  be  as  Effectual  for  their  Deliverance  as  they 
have  ben  for  those  Spanish  prisoners 

I  am  sr  &c 

To  the  Hon!  G  T.  Esq' 
Gov!  of  Pensylvania. 


GOVERNOR  SHIRLEY  AND  ADMIRAL  WARREN  TO  GOVERNOR 

GREENE. 

Boston  July  7.  1746. 
Sir, 

The  Committee  of  War  having  represented  to  Us 
the  difficulties  they  meet  with  in  purchasing  the  ne- 
cessary Supplys  of  Provisions,  that  are  wanted  for 
the  Forces  to  be  employed  in  the  Expedition  against 
Canada,  and  as  We  apprehend  this  Difficulty  is  in  a 
great  measure  owing  to  the  prohibition  laid  by  some 
of  the  Southern  Governments  upon  the  exportation 
of  provisions  in  order  to  obtain  their  own  supplys 

1  See  the  two  letters  immediately  preceding  this. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        429 

for  the  same  design  which  by  this  time  may  be  Com- 
pleated,  We  must  desire  you  now  to  take  off  said 
Prohabition  if  there  be  any  such  in  your  Govern- 
ment, and  to  forward  as  much  as  may  be  Such  Sup- 
plys  to  us  as  hist  Majestys  service  demands,  and 
you  may  assure  the  Coasters  that  they  shall  be  at 
free  Liberty  to  return  forthwith  notwithstanding  the 
Embargo  laid  upon  the  Shipping  here,  and  as  it  is 
thought  expedient,  that  Such  an  Embargo  shou'd 
take  place  here  in  order  to  preserve  our  Seamen 
for  his  majestys  service,  We  hope  you  will  likewise 
judge  it  necessary  to  come  into  the  like  method 
within  your  Governm*  or  it  will  prove  fruitless  in 
this,^     We  are  Sir, 

Your  Honours  most  Obedient  humble  servants 

P  Warren      W  Shirley 

The  Hon^?«  Will¥  Green  Esq!; 


ADMIRAL    WARREN    TO    GOVERNOR    GREENE. 

Boston  16'!'  July  1746 
Sir 

I  have  the  Honour  of  yours,  dated  the  11*.''^  by  the 
Post,  and  wish  that  your  Government  coud  have 
raisd  a  full  Regiment  of  one  Thousand  Men  for  the 
Expedition  now  on  foot  against  Canada  ;  This  woud 
have  given  your  Colony  great  credit,  and  your  Hon- 

1  Greene's  answer  to  this  letter  is  printed  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  187. 

2  Probably  that  printed  in  Col.  Rec.  of  R.  /.,  V.  183.    The  date  was  omitted  from 
the  draught. 


430  Correspondence  of  the 

our  an  opportunity  of  appointing  a  Colonel,  and  all 
the  proper  Field  Officers  to  it.  As  you  observe  the 
Number  of  your  Privateers,  to  be  sure,  takes  up 
many  Men,^  but  I  concieve  they  resort  to  you  from 
all  the  Colonys,  and  too  often  from  his  Majesty's 
ships  ;  I  am  very  sensible  they  do  great  service,  but 
were  they  now  restraind  from  their  private  Pursuits, 
and  encouragf  to  engage  in  the  intended  Enterprize, 
an  Addition  by  that  means  might  be  made  to  your 
Quota,  and  it  woud  look  better,  as  upon  the  Success 
of  this  Expedition  depends  so  much  the  well  being 
of  all  his  Majesty's  Dominions,  especially  in  America. 
Surely  if  the  French  were  in  our  situation,  upon  this 
Continent,  and  We  in  theirs,  they  woud  not  leave 
one  of  us  upon  it  in  six  Months,  and  why  our  Colo- 
nies shoud  any  of  them  hesitate  one  moment  about 
any  Expence,  shoud  it  even  fall  upon  them,  I  cant 
account  for,  but  I  dont  suppose  it  will,  as  We  are 
told  from  England  the  Expence  of  the  late  Expe- 
dition was  under  the  Consideration  of  Parliament 
and  great  Room  to  believe  the  Colonys  woud  be 
reimbursed.  Their  all  is  now  at  Stake,  and  future 
Generations  will  have  the  greatest  Reason  to  blame 
the  Conduct  of  the  Present,  if  they  dont  embrace 
so  glorious  a  Prospect  as  they  now  have  to  extir- 
pate a  most  troublesome  Enemy,  who  will  probably 
grow  more  formidable  to  our  Posterity,  than  they 
are  at  present  to  us.  I  presume  you  will  think  of 
sending  the  Forces  you  have  raised  to  Nantasket,  as 
soon    as   possible,  under   the    Care  of   your  Colony 

1  Greene  says,  in  his  letter  referred  to  above,  "  more  than  three  thousand  "  Rhode 
Island  men  were  in  arms. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island       431 

Sloop,  to  take  the  Benefit  of  the  Convoy  that  will 
go  with  the  Massachusetts,  New  Hampshire,  and 
Connecticut  Troops,  to  the  Rendezvous  at  Louis- 
bourg 

The  Men  you  mention  that  were  raisd  for  the 
Vigilant  upon  the  Faith  of  your  Governments  are  all 
discharged,  except  a  very  few  now  out  in  the  Chester, 
whose  Captain  (as  the  Kings  Service  woud  not  ad- 
mit of  my  parting  with  them  without  getting  Men  in 
their  Room)  is  ordered  to  change  them  into  any  Ves- 
sell  he  may,  during  his  Cruize,  meet  with,  bound  to 
such  of  the  Colonys  as  they  may  desirous  of  going 
to,  and  I  have  also  directed  him  for  their  Encourage- 
ment, to  pay  them  their  Wages,  as  I  have  done  all 
the  others,  a  thing  I  dare  say  never  done  before,  and 
what  I  flatter  my  self  will  convince  your  Legislature, 
that  I  have  taken  the  greatest  Care  to  keep  their 
faith  with  those  Voluntiers  inviolable,  and  I  hope 
they  will  be  assured  that  I  shall  upon  all  Occasions 
demonstrate  myself  a  well  Wisher  to  the  Colony  of 
Road  Island,  by  doing  it  every  good  Office  in  my 
power 

I  am  with  great  Regard  Sir 

Your  most  Obedient  Humble  Servant 

P  Warren 

You  will  please  as  a  Distinction  from  the  others 
to  order  all  the  Vessells  you  send  upon  the  Expedi- 
tion to  Wear  a  broad  blew  Vane,  with  a  large  white 
Ball  in  it,  at  their  main  Topmasts  or  Top  Gall!  Mast- 
heads 

The  Hon^!^  Govern'  Green 


432  Correspondence  of  the 

RICHARD    PARTRIDGE   TO   GOVERNOR   GREENE. 

London  5*^  month  or  July  26'."  1746 
Goif.  Green 

Understanding  thou  art  again  Elected  GovT  of  the 
Colony  of  Rhod  Island  &c^  I  now  address  my  Self  to 
thee  to  inform  thee  that  I  have  some  time  since  sent 
over  the  Order  of  the  King  in  Council  under  the 
Privy  Seal  for  establishing  the  Boundarys  which  has 
been  so  long  depending  with  the  Massach'?  agreable 
to  the  Judgm*  of  the  Lords  Committee  in  xber.  1744. 
and  also  duplicates  of  the  same  which  I  hope  will 
gett  safe  to  hand  and  be  very  acceptable  to  the  Col- 
ony and  wherein  I  may  say  I  left  no  stone  unturned 
to  bring  that  Affair  to  so  good  an  Issue. 

As  for  the  Acco'  of  the  Colonys  Charge  and  Ex- 
pence  relating  to  Cape  Breton  the  same  with  my 
Petition  to  the  King  has  been  (on  a  Refference)  under 
the  Consideration  of  a  Committee  of  Lords  of  the 
Council  and  now  I  have  the  Satisfaction  to  tell  thee 
that  they  have  agreed  to  Report  back  to  the  King  in 
our  favour  and  to  propose  that  he  wou'd  be  pleas'd 
to  recommend  it  to  Parliam'  at  the  beginning  of  the 
next  Sessions  together  with  the  Massachu*.^  Demand 
and  that  in  the  mean  time  the  Several  Demands  may 
be  referrd  to  some  proper  persons  to  liquidate 
them.^  but  I  am  told  its  likely  that  it  will  be  upwards 
of  a  Year  yet  before  the  money  will  be  paid  however 
I  intend  duely  to  pursue  it,  and  if  you  have  a  further 
Subsequent  Charge   lett  me   have  it  in  time  duely 

1  See  the  following  document. 


Colonial  Governors  of  Rhode  Island        433 

proved  and  Authenicated  to  carry  into  Parliament 
to  be  added  to  our  first  Acco!  and  as  there  will  be  an 
absolute  necessity  of  Expence  for  this  and  paying  my 
Solicitor  his  former  Bill  of  Costs  &c^  I  earnestly 
intreat  that  Remittances  may  be  made  me  with  all  Ex- 
pedition and  which  I  pray  thou  wouldst  be  so  kind 
as  to  recommend  to  the  House  of  Representatives 
that  I  may  be  encouraged  Chearfully  to  pursue  the 
Affairs  of  the  Colony  under  my  Care. 

I  have  not  yet  had  a  Plan  of  your  Fortification 
sent  me  over  w''''  was  required  by  the  Ministry  here 
and  which  I  wrote  for  some  time  since ;  till  that 
comes  nothing  can  be  further  done  in  obtaining  a 
Grant  for  the  Stores  required  —  I  was  very  lately  at 
the  Office  of  Ordnance  and  am  informed  of  the  same 
there/ 

As  for  Publick  News  the  Warr  with  France  and 
Spain  continues  still,  but  as  the  King  of  Spain  is 
lately  deceased  it  is  thought  that  Circumstances  will 
in  time  prove  an  advantage  to  this  Kingdom,  the 
Rebellion  now  seems  to  be  quelled  and  pretty  well 
over,  and  the  Governm!  are  now  busyed  in  the  Tryal 
of  the  Rebells  of  whom  several  Officers  are  already 
Condemned,  for  the  I  refer  to  the  Prints  herewith 
sent  and  remain,  with  due  Respects  to  thy  Self  and 
the  Gentlemen  of  the  Council 

Thy  and  Their  faithfull  Friend, 

RicH°  Partridge 

My  Brother  in   Law  Belcher  is  by  the  King  ap- 

1  See  Greene's  letter  of  August  i,  1746. 


434    Correspondence  of  the  Colonial  Governors 

pointed    Gov''  of  New  Jersey  in  the  room  of   Gov' 
Morris  dec^  and  kissd  his  hand  for  it  the  22*^  Inst : 

To  The  Governour  and  Company 

of  the  Colony  of  Rhode  Island  and  Providence 
Plantations 
New  England 


WILLIAM    SHARPE   TO   RICHARD    PARTRIDGE.^ 

Whitehall  17  June  1746 
Dear  Sir 

I  took  care  of  yor  Petition  during  your  absence,  — 
and  have  the  Satisfaction  to  tell  you  that  the  Lords 
have  agreed  to  report  to  the  King  in  your  favour, 
and  to  propose  that  his  Majesty  would  be  pleased  to 
recommend  it  to  Parliam*  at  the  beginning  of  the 
next  Sessions,  together  with  the  Massachusets  De- 
mand, And  that  in  the  mean  time  the  several  Demands 
may  be  referrd  to  some  proper  persons  to  liquidate 
them,  I  am  most  truely 

Dr  Sl^  yor  very  obed*  Servant 

W:  Sharpe 

1  Enclosed  with  letter  of  July  26,  1746. 


END   OF   VOLUME   L 


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